Matthew Perry’s Family Breaks Silence After His ‘Tragic’ Death

The family of Friends actor Matthew Perry has broken their silence after the actor’s unexpected death on Saturday.

“Matthew brought so much joy to the world, both as an actor and a friend,” Perry’s family said in their statement to PEOPLE magazine on Sunday. “You all meant so much to him and we appreciate the tremendous outpouring of love,” the family added.

Brian Humphrey, a spokesman for the Los Angeles Fire Department, told CNN that they received a call at 4:07 p.m. regarding a potential “water rescue” situation. Upon their arrival, they found Perry to be “unresponsive.”

Suzanne Perry and John Bennett Perry, the late actor’s parents who separated in 1970, were visibly shattered outside his residence. Accompanying Suzanne was Perry’s stepfather and her spouse, Keith Morrison from Dateline.

Warner Bros., the powerhouse behind many of Perry’s projects, expressed their sorrow. “We are devastated by the passing of our dear friend Matthew Perry. Matthew was an incredibly gifted actor and an indelible part of the Warner Bros. Television Group family,” the company stated. “The impact of his comedic genius was felt around the world, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of so many. This is a heartbreaking day, and we send our love to his family, his loved ones, and all of his devoted fans.”

The actor’s fellow Friends cast members, with whom he had a reunion in 2021 for an HBO Max special, have maintained silence on this devastating loss. Perry frequently expressed admiration for his co-stars, including Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, David Schwimmer, and Matt LeBlanc. His 2022 memoir, “Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing,” delves into the deep connection he shared with them and how they stood by him during his battles with addiction throughout the decade-long run of the show.

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