Matthew Perry Recalled Jennifer Aniston’s Support During His Sobriety Journey
Los Angeles, CA – Matthew Perry, beloved star of the hit sitcom Friends, tragically passed away on Saturday at the age of 54. As fans mourn the loss of the talented actor, Perry’s harrowing struggles with addiction and the support he received from his co-star Jennifer Aniston have resurfaced.
In a 2022 interview with ABC News’s Diane Sawyer, Perry revealed that Aniston was a constant source of support throughout his journey towards sobriety. He expressed deep gratitude for Aniston, who played Rachel Green on Friends, for reaching out to him the most during his struggles.
Perry disclosed that Aniston was the first castmate to confront him about his alcoholism while filming the iconic series. “Jennifer, she says, ‘We know you’re drinking,'” Perry recounted to Sawyer. The actor admitted that this was a scary moment for him, but acknowledged the significance of Aniston’s concern.
In his poignant memoir, Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing, Perry detailed his battles with addiction alongside memories of his career. He revealed that his addiction began at the young age of 14 and escalated under the pressures of fame after joining the cast of Friends.
Perry described his struggles with alcohol and later an addiction to the opiate pain medication Vicodin. “When I’m carrying weight, it’s alcohol; when I’m skinny, it’s pills; when I have a goatee, it’s a lot of pills,” he shared in his memoir.
Despite his personal struggles, Perry maintained that he was “never” drunk or high during filming. His dedication to his craft remained unwavering, even as he battled his demons behind the scenes.
Following the news of Perry’s tragic death, his former colleagues, friends, fans, and family members expressed their heartache and shared loving memories. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, a childhood friend of Perry’s, called his death “shocking and saddening” and remembered the joy the actor brought to people around the world.
Other stars, such as Hannah Waddingham and Paget Brewster, also paid tribute to Perry, emphasizing his comedic talent and his impact on their lives. Waddingham referred to Perry as “magic,” while Brewster praised his legacy of using his experiences to help others.
Perry’s death serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of addiction and the importance of support from loved ones. If you or someone you know is struggling with drug addiction, confidential help and support are available 24/7 through organizations such as Frank and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
Matthew Perry’s talent, humor, and resilience will be remembered by fans and loved ones alike. His unforgettable portrayal of Chandler Bing on Friends continues to bring joy to audiences around the world.