Matthew Perryis receiving tributes from Hollywood and beyond after his suddendeath.
On Saturday, multiple outlets confirmed that the 54-year-old actor had died from an apparent drowning. As news of theFriendsstar’s death circulated, many both within and outside of the entertainment community shared memories of the five-time Emmy nominee.
Michelle and Robert King, co-creators ofThe Good WifeandThe Good Fight, reminisced about the opportunities they had to work with the late actor.
“So many people have talked about Matthew Perry’s struggles, and, yes, that’s probably true; but can we just go on for a minute about how much fun it was to collaborate with him?” they wrote in a statement shared with PEOPLE. “Not just on THE GOOD WIFE and GOOD FIGHT, but also on a limited series we tried to develop with each other. Everyone knows that Matthew was funny – and he was plenty funny – but he was also deadly serious about his craft.”
The Kings continued, “He wanted to play a villain because he wanted to stretch himself as an actor. He took his work, but not himself, very seriously. But off the set, he was anything but villainous. Kind, menschy, honest about his issues. We’ll miss him a lot.”
In a post shared to Instagram, hisServing SaracostarElizabeth Hurleycaptioned a carousel of photos and videos of the two filming the movie and posing for promotional content.
“RIP Matthew Perry,” she wrote. “So sad to hear the news of his passing. He was an incredibly talented comedian and a lovely man.”
Morgan Fairchild, Perry’s on-screen mother inFriends, expressed her devastation at the news, writing on X (formerly known as Twitter): “I’m heartbrokenabout the untimely death of my ‘son’, Matthew Perry. The loss of such a brilliant young actor is a shock. I’m sending love & condolences to his friends & family, especially his dad,John Bennett Perry, who I worked with onFlamingo Road&Falcon Crest. #RIPMatthew”
AnotherFriendscostar,Paget Brewster,who played Chandler’s love interest, Kathy, on the show, also paid tribute to Perry in a heartfeltpost on X, where she shared her deep sadness at learning of the actor’s death and remembered the kindness he had shown her during their years working together, and beyond.
“I’m so very sad to hear about @MatthewPerry,” she wrote. “He was lovely to me on Friends and every time I saw him in the decades after. Please read his book. It was his legacy to help. He won’t rest in peace though.. He’s already too busy making everyone laugh up there.”
Friendsco-creators Marta Kauffman and David Crane, and EP Kevin Bright issued a joint statement, saying that Perry’s death “still seems impossible.”
“We will always cherish the joy, the light, the blinding intelligence he brought to every moment - not just to his work, but in life as well. He was always the funniest person in the room. More than that, he was the sweetest, with a giving and selfless heart. We send all of our love to his family and friends.” Playing off the show’s tradition episode title format, the trio concluded, “This truly is ‘The One Where Our Hearts Are Broken.’ "
Kaley Cuocoposted anEntertainment Tonightclip of Perry talking about the “magic” of Friends, with him saying, “I knew it was going to be the happiest time of my life and it was.”
“Thank you for the laugh Matt Perry,” Cuoco captioned the clip in an Instagram story. “You were a joy to watch for so many years and a constant lesson in comedic timing. We loved you!! So sad to hear this.”
Brooke Shields, who played Joey’s psycho super fan on Friends, said in an Instagram post that she was “really struggling to find the words. You were so loved, Matthew. I loved you dearly. Thank you for the belly laughs. You brought joy to so many. We already miss you… sending all of my love to your family & friends 💔”
Sarah Fergusonrecalls how excited she was to meet Perry whenFriendsshot portions of Ross and Emily’s wedding in London. “I remember being thrilled to have met a natural talent, comedian and brilliant actor. It is a tragedy to lose you so early in life, rest in peace dear Matthew … you have given so much joy and laughter to so many,” she wrote on Instagram, along with a photo of her with the cast.
In a message shared on her Instagram Story,Rumer Willis— whose fatherBruce Willisstarred inThe Whole Nine YardsandThe Whole Ten Yardsalongside Perry — wrote, “I’m so sad to hear about Matthew Perry passing.”
She recounted, “When I was a kid and I was on Set while he and my dad were doing whole nine and whole 10 yardshe was so kind and funny and sweetwith my sisters and me and I think his physical Comedy and that movie still makes me laugh so much, I know he had many challenges in his life and brought a lot of joy to people with his comedy I hope he can rest peacefully.”
Canadian Prime MinisterJustin Trudeau, one of Perry’s school classmates in Ottawa, wrote on X: “Matthew Perry’s passing isshocking and saddening. I’ll never forget the schoolyard games we used to play, and I know people around the world are never going to forget the joy he brought them. Thanks for all the laughs, Matthew. You were loved – and you will be missed.”
Perry’sStudio 60 on the Sunset Stripcostar and directorTimothy Busfieldshared an exclusive statement with PEOPLE: “Matty Perry was a gem. I had the great, good fortune to act with and also direct him onStudio 60 on the Sunset Strip.”
In a statement shared exclusively with PEOPLE,Studio 60 on the Sunset Stripcostar Columbus Short spoke of Perry’s talent, kindness and generosity.
“Matthew was not only one of the most talented actors I was blessed to work with but he was equally as kind, generous and took me under his wing during our time onStudio 60,” Short began.
“I was a rookie amongst veterans and Matthew treated me like we had known each other for years. Funny story, I was a recurring guest star so I had basically a cubicle for a trailer and every lunch break he would invite me to his trailer to play videos, laugh and chill. By the end of the series I was in Matt’s trailer more than he was. Taking and playing videos and watching his directv. He is already truly missed and his family, extended family and “Friends” are in my prayers. This is a tough one for everyone. Missing you already. MP love you man” he concluded.Ayda Field Williams— who also costarred with Perry inStudio 60 on the Sunset Stripand is married to singerRobbie Williams— alsoshared a tributeto the late actor. A message on Instagram alongside a still of herself and Perry from the show.
“I’ve just read the news that Matthew Perry has passed away and my heart is heavy,” she began.
“Many years ago, I had the pleasure of working with Matt on a tv series called Studio 60 On The Sunset Strip. Working alongside him for a year was truly a privilege, personally and professionally. Not only was Matt one of the most talented actors I’ve ever worked with, he was one wickedly funny human being. He lit up a room with his humour and his charm. I feel grateful that I have these memories and am mourning the loss of a really special man. I’ll miss you, Matt 💔xx #rip”
Another star who worked with Perry on the comedy series, comedian D.L. Hughley, said in a statement to PEOPLE: “So very sad. Matthew was a professional; an incredibly funny and wonderful human being. He was always so generous and gracious on set. I learned a lot from him, and I was lucky to have had a chance to work with him.”
Minnie Driver— who appeared alongside Perry in David Mamet’s playSexual Perversity In Chicagoin 2003 — shared how “kind” and “funny” the late actor was during their time working together.
“I think you’d finally found peace in your life. I will remember just how much we laughed when we worked together, and how kind and incredibly funny you were,” shewrote on Instagram, adding, “rest in peace, rise in glory 🤍”
Olivia Munnalso shared her condolences for the late actor in an Instagram Story post as well, writing, “He struggled with so much addiction and was brave enough to be open and honest about it. I’m so sorry to his family and friends who are getting this news today. Nothing short of heartbreaking. Rest in love, Matthew Perry 💔”
Shannen Doherty, Perry’s one-time costar when he appeared onBeverly Hills 90210in 1991, wrote on Instagram: “We were a gang way back. We all grew up together going to the Formosa, North and constantly laughing. Matt, Roger, David, Roxana. We played dare and Matt had to say ridiculous things to girls at the bar. We just always had fun and supported each other. You would always find us all together in a booth speaking in our own made up language. And yes, Matt always had THAT sense of humor.”
Doherty recalled, “Matt and I had a date and it was on Valentine’s Day. He wanted to get a reservation at a restaurant in Malibu but couldn’t so my dad got the reservation for him. We went and he talked about my dads Irish persuasiveness the majority of the night. Our friendship spanned a long time. A lifetime really.”
Vinnie Zuffante/Getty
“Matty was always the funniest person in the room. And the KINDEST. He was kind,” affirmedAlyssa MilanoonInstagram.“Matty, remember when we used to go play bingo at that church in the valley?” she wrote. “You made me laugh that painful kind of laugh. A cry laugh. You made me cry-laugh.“TheWho’s the Boss?alum concluded, “My condolences to all who loved him. 💔”
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Valerie Bertinelli, who played Perry’s sibling on the 1990 CBS sitcomSydney,posted a tribute to the star on her Instagram Story. “Rest in peace, sweet man,” she said.
Honoring Perry on X,Wendell Pierce, who portrayed the actor’s boss on the 2015 CBSThe Odd Couplewrote: “For 2 years Matthew Perry was my boss, my colleague, and a giving, kind, funny man. I pray and hope he is at peace.”
George Takeisaidin his own tribute, “What a tragic piece of news to read. My heart goes out to his loved ones and long time cast mates.”
In a statement given to PEOPLE,Laura Benanti, who starred onGo Onwith Perry, said, “Matty was a generous, brilliant man of unparalleled talent. I feel grateful to have known him.”
Ami Dolenz, who starred in the 1989 filmShe’s Out of Controlwith Perry, told PEOPLE in a statement: “When I heard the news of Matthew’s passing, I was stunned. He was incredibly talented and a joy to be around. His comedic timing was impeccable. I’ll always remember the Prom/dancing scene we did together in the movieShe’s Out of Control; it was an absolute blast. He always made me laugh. Matthew will be deeply missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. Rest in peace, Matthew.”
Perry’sParallel LivescostarMira Sorvinoalso publicly reacted to the actor’s death. “Oh no!!! Matthew Perry!! You sweet, troubled soul!! May you find peace and happiness in Heaven, making everyone laugh with your singular wit!!! 💔 💔 💔,” she wrote on X.
Meredith Salenger, who worked with Perry on 1988’sA Night in the Life of Jimmy Reardon, also posted a tribute on X alongside photos of the two stars together.
“Oh no no no no no! Matty! Oh man. My heart breaks. Matty . . . Matthew and I have known each other since were were 16 years old. Oh man. No words. Rest in peace sweet @MatthewPerry. 💔😔,” the actress wrote.
Tom Green, who was raised in Perry’s hometown of Ottawa, Canada, alsoshared on X, “Shocked and saddened to just hear about the passing of Matthew Perry in a tragic drowning. He is one of the many talented and incredible success stories from my hometown of Ottawa Canada. Rest in peace Matthew.”
Nancy Sinatraadded on thesocial platform, “Happy trails to you, Matt. Thanks for being you. Wishing you a peaceful journey home through the stars.If you loved Matthew Perry as I did read his book. You will learn a lot about him.”
Matthew Perry.Gregg DeGuire/FilmMagic
Gregg DeGuire/FilmMagic
“Awful news. RIP brother,“Josh Charleswrotein a statement.
On herInstagram page,Selma Blairpaid tribute to Perry, writing, “♥️. My oldest boy friend. All of us loved Matthew Perry, and I did especially. Every day. I loved him unconditionally. And he me. And I’m broken. Broken hearted. Sweet dreams Matty. Sweet dreams.
Josh Gad, who’s currently starring in Broadway’sGutenberg The Musical, wrote on Instagram: “What horrible news to walk out to at the end of my show. No words. Just devastating. 💔💔💔 Love to all of his friends and his entire family.”
NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty
Viola Daviesadded that Perry’s “heart reigned supreme” in her own tribute.
“This is devastating. Your book shifted so many close to my heart,” shewrote on Instagram. “The people no one sees and most throwaway. It was a gift. Beyond the joy you brought to many, your heart reigned supreme. Rest well…..know that you brought love 💔🕊.”
Also on Instagram,The OfficestarRainn Wilsonwrote that he was “heartbroken” at the news of Perry’s death, adding that he “only got to meet Matthew a handful of times, but he was always sharp and kind.““He was, and I use this term rarely, a genius. Chandler was one of the all-time great characters and his ability to spin a slightly funny line into absolute comedy gold was unsurpassed. Soar with the comedic angels, Matthew Perry. R.I.P.,” Wilson’s post concluded.
She went on to say “how much I love what he did for us” and added that “hopefully now he can rest in peace.”
The singer then performed her track “When We Were Young.”
Gwyneth Paltrow also posted a touching tribute to Perry, writing in an Instagram post that they met 30 years ago and shared a kiss one “magical summer.”
“I met Matthew Perry in 1993 at the Williamstown Theater Festival in Massachusetts. We were both there for most of the summer doing plays,” she wrote. “He was so funny and so sweet and so much fun to be with. We drove out to swim in creeks, had beers in the local college bar, kissed in a field of long grass. It was a magical summer. He had shot the pilot of Friends but it had not aired yet. He was nervous, hoping his big break was just around the corner. It was. We stayed friends for a while until we drifted apart, but I was always happy to see him when I did. I am super sad today, as so many of us are. I hope Matthew is at peace at long last. I really do.
Hank Azariapaid tribute to his longtime friend, whom he met over 35 years ago and was “the funniest man ever.”
“Matthew was the first friend I made in Los Angeles, when I moved there. I was 21, he was 16,” Azaria said in a video post on Instagram. “Matthew and I became really good friends and we were really more like brothers for a long time. We drank a lot together, we laughed a lot together, we were there for each other in the early days of our career.”
The Simpsonsactor went on to share his love for his friend and how addiction affected their relationship. “I really loved him. A lot of us who were close to him felt like we lost him to drugs and alcohol a long time ago because — as he documented in his autobiography — there was so much suffering,” Azaria said.
“I’m a sober guy for 17 years, and I wanna say that, the night I went into AA, Matthew brought me in. The whole first year I was sober, we went to meetings together,” Azaria continued. “He was so caring and giving and wise. And he totally helped me get sober. And I really wish he could’ve, you know, found the – found it in himself to stay with the silver life more consistently.”
David Beckhamposted two photos of Perry in an Instagram story of Chandler in mid-laugh with a broken heart emoji and the caption, “it’s just so sad. We will miss this smile.”
“The Haunting of Hill House” actress Elizabeth Reaser remembers how Perry was there for her many years ago, when she was having a “rough time” in her life and needed a friend.
“He said it would be nice if people would remember him for how he tried to help other people. So I would like to add to the conversation that when I was going through a really tough time in my life, around 2008, Matthew happened to text me and say how are you - and I was sad enough in that moment to tell him,” she began.
“I was surprised then and I still am that he made a big effort to make me feel better and try to uplift me. And he was just so so kind. And because he cared so much, it did help. At one point we lived in the same apartment building and he would run lines with me for big auditions, encourage me, take me to spinning classes, dinners with his friends.” She continued, “He was just a nice person. And empathetic. And so so so funny. Obviously. I know I’m one of millions who feel sad to know he’s gone.”
Ione Skye shared the sweet last text conversation with Perry, that is both heartwarming and heartbreaking. In it, Perry says, “Hi! I hope all is well. I was meditating (I meditate now) and ‘In Your Eyes’ starting playing. And I instantly thought of how beautiful you are,” he wrote, referencing the song from her filmSay Anything.”
“My last exchange a week ago. I’m very very sad. Loved this guy,” she wrote as the caption.
Perry, who was best known for playing Chandler Bing onFriends,was found dead at a Los Angeles-area home on Saturday, according to multiple outlets.
A spokesperson for the Los Angeles Police Department told PEOPLE that officers responded to a call at Perry’s address regarding the death of a male in his 50s, but would not confirm the deceased’s identity.
TMZ was also told that there was no foul play involved, and their sources said first-responders were called to the residence for cardiac arrest.
Representatives for Perry did not immediately respond to PEOPLE’s request for comment.
source: people.com
