Matthew Perry, famed for portraying the beloved character Chandler Bing in the immensely popular TV series “Friends,” passed away at the age of 54 on October 28. He was discovered unresponsive in a hot tub, and despite the efforts of first responders, Mr. Perry could not be revived.
Matthew Perry made millions of people laugh through his character and left a legacy that reaches beyond his achievements as an actor.
However, In one of his interviews Mathew opened up about how he wants to be remembered after he passes away. He shared this in 2022, and discussed his legacy during an appearance on the “Q With Tom Power” podcast while promoting his memoir titled “Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing.
Perry openly discussed his struggles with alcohol and drug abuse during his career. After a jet ski accident in 1997, he became addicted to Vicodin and went to rehab in 2001. He transformed his Malibu home into a sober living facility called the Perry House, which operated until 2015. In 2021, Perry proudly declared his sobriety and shared that he invested $9 million in his journey to recovery.
Mathew said in the interview, “I would like to be remembered as somebody who lived well, loved well, was a seeker,” Perry said. “And his paramount thing is that he wants to help people. That’s what I want.”
He added, “The best thing about me, bar none, is that if somebody comes to me and says, ‘I can’t stop drinking, can you help me?’ I can say ‘yes’ and follow up and do it,” Perry said. When I die, I don’t want Friends to be the first thing that’s mentioned. I want that to be the first thing that’s mentioned. And I’m gonna live the rest of my life proving that.”
Matthew Perry’s impact goes beyond the laughter he brought; it extends to the lives he influenced and the optimism he kindled. While his fans celebrate his cleverness and humor, let’s also pay tribute to his courage, and unwavering commitment to making a difference, ensuring that his memory endures in the hearts he motivated.
