Remembering Matthew Perry: A Tribute to His Impact Following Tragic Reports
‘Saturday Night Live’ pays tribute to the legendary Matthew Perry, who tragically passed away just hours before the October 28 broadcast Perry, a former SNL host, leaves behind a legacy of unforgettable comedic performances and will always be remembered as a true talent
Matthew Perry Warner Bros. Television
The October 28th episode of Saturday Night Live paid tribute to Matthew Perry. Hosted by comedian Nate Bargatze and featuring The Foo Fighters as the musical guest, the broadcast concluded with a special tribute to Perry. As the final sketch ended, SNL displayed a black-and-white photo of Perry from his hosting debut, alongside his name in text.
Perry, known for his role as Chandler Bing on the popular sitcom Friends, hosted an episode of the well-known variety series in October 1997. During his appearance on Saturday Night Live (SNL), Perry humorously imitated Joey Tribbiani, a character played by Matt LeBlanc on Friends. Tragically, news of Perry's death at the age of 54 broke shortly before SNL aired. Law enforcement officials were called to Perry's Los Angeles residence, where they discovered him unresponsive in a jacuzzi. The cause of death has not been confirmed, and there is no evidence of foul play. An investigation into Perry's untimely passing is currently underway.
Perry's representatives did not promptly respond to We's comment request. A spokesperson from the L.A. coroner's office informs us that there is currently no positive identification of anyone by that name.
Shortly after Perry's passing, numerous former colleagues and friends expressed their heartfelt tributes on social media.
“My first and dearest friend. Matthew Perry was adored by all of us, but I had a special affection for him. It was a love that knew no conditions, and it was unyielding every single day,” Selma Blair wrote as the caption to an Instagram selfie featuring both of them. “He loved me in the same way. And now, my heart is shattered. I am devastated. May Matthew Perry rest in peaceful slumber. May he have sweet dreams.”
Rumer Willis recalled her first encounter with Matthew Perry during his collaboration with her father, Bruce Willis, in films like The Whole Nine Yards, The Whole Ten Yards, and the last season of the television show Friends.
"I'm saddened by the news of Matthew Perry's passing. When I was a child and on set during the filming of Whole Nine and Whole 10 Yards, he was incredibly kind and funny, always treating my sisters and me with sweetness," Rumer, 35, shared on her Instagram Story on Saturday. "His physical comedy in that movie still brings me so much laughter. Despite the challenging moments in his life, he brought joy to many with his comedy. May he rest in peace."
In addition to honoring Perry, the Saturday episode of SNL featured first-time host Bargatze, 44, in a series of Halloween-themed sketches. One sketch parodied Hallmark romances by creating a murderous horror version, with Bargatze and cast member Chloe Fineman. Another sketch enlisted SNL personality Sarah Sherman (portraying Fran Drescher) to educate child trick-or-treaters about adhering to SAG-AFTRA strike regulations when choosing their costumes.
Christopher Walken, Padma Lakshmi, and singer H.E.R. made surprise celebrity appearances on Saturday. Walken, 80, portrayed the "Spirit of Halloween" in the political cold open, while Lakshmi, 53, took on the role of a judge in a Top Chef-like cooking competition sketch. H.E.R., 26, joined the Foo Fighters on stage for their second musical performance. Saturday Night Live is broadcasted on NBC on Saturdays at 11:30 p.m. ET.
