Matthew Perry praised Jennifer Aniston for her support during his journey to sobriety
Matthew Perry, star of the hit TV show Friends, once revealed that his co-star Jennifer Aniston played a crucial role in his battle against addiction. In an interview with ABC News in October 2022, Perry expressed his gratitude towards Aniston for reaching out to him throughout his journey to sobriety.
Perry, who tragically passed away on October 28th at the age of 54, spoke about the support he received from Aniston, who portrayed Rachel Green on the iconic sitcom. He shared that Aniston was the first castmate to confront him about his alcoholism while they were filming the series.
In his memoir, Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing, Perry delved into his struggles with addiction, which began at a young age. He detailed how his addiction worsened under the pressures of fame after the success of Friends, leading to dependency on alcohol and opiate pain medication.
Perry acknowledged that during his darkest moments, he would consume 55 strong painkillers a day to cope with the demands of his career. However, he emphasized that despite his battles, he was “never” drunk or high during filming.
Upon hearing the news of Perry’s death, numerous colleagues, friends, and fans paid tribute to the beloved actor. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, a childhood friend of Perry, expressed his shock and sadness, remembering the joy and laughter Perry brought to people’s lives.
Actress Hannah Waddingham, known for her roles in Sex Education and Ted Lasso, described Perry as “magic” and spoke of his lasting impact on both the comedy industry and his loved ones. Actor Paget Brewster, who worked with Perry on Friends, fondly remembered his kindness and humor.
In the wake of Perry’s passing, it is essential to address the topic of addiction. If you or someone you know is struggling with drug addiction, reach out to confidential helpline services like Frank in the UK or the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration in the US.
Matthew Perry’s talent and contributions to the entertainment industry will be remembered, and his battle against addiction serves as a reminder of the need for support, understanding, and compassion.