Perry’s former co-stars say they are “deeply devastated” by the actor’s sudden death.
The remaining cast of Friends have paid tribute to Matthew Perry, calling his sudden death an “unbelievable loss.”
“We are all deeply devastated by the loss of Matthew,” Jennifer Aniston, David Schwimmer, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow and Matt LeBlanc told People magazine in their first public comments on Perry’s death.
“We were more than just cast mates. We are a family. There is so much to say, but for now we will take a moment to grieve and process this incredible loss.”
Perry’s five former co-stars said they would have more to say “when we’re able.”
“Right now our thoughts and love are with Matty’s family, his friends and everyone who loved him around the world.”
Perry was found lifeless in a hot tub at his Los Angeles home on Saturday afternoon, the LA Times reported, citing law enforcement sources.
He was 54.
The Canadian-born actor had spoken openly about his addiction issues and his rehab for painkillers and alcohol.
In his 2022 memoir “Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing,” Perry described a five-month hospital stay in 2018 after a ruptured colon that he said gave him a two percent chance of surviving the night.
Perry’s cause of death is currently under investigation by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office.
Perry became one of the world’s best-known actors for his role as the sarcastic, witty Chandler Bing on the NBC sitcom “Friends,” which ran for ten seasons from 1994 to 2004.
The series, which followed the lives of six young New Yorkers, was one of the most-watched U.S. television shows during its run and remains popular in syndication around the world.
Perry’s death caused great sadness and shock among fans around the world. Mourners left flowers and warm tributes outside the New York building that served as the show’s exterior.
“Pop culture fanatic. Introvert. Devoted food trailblazer. Bacon geek. Lifelong coffee evangelist.”