Lauren Graham recently opened up about her friend Matthew Perry’s death, calling it a “terrible loss.” She spoke about her connection with Perry at a book event in Washington, D.C., describing him as a friend and constant in her life, although they were never technically in a relationship. She revealed that they had reconnected in the months leading up to his death, with Perry even giving her a heartfelt gift for her birthday.
Perry passed away in October 2023 at the age of 54, with his death being attributed to the acute effects of ketamine. He had previously written about receiving ketamine treatments to help with pain and depression in his memoir, but ultimately decided it was not for him. Throughout his career, Perry struggled with substance abuse, being completely sober for only one season of Friends, the show that made him famous.
During her book tour, Graham spoke about how Perry was proud of the impact his memoir had made on others. She shared that he was thrilled with how it was received, as it allowed him to talk about his struggles and help others going through similar issues. Graham also mourned his loss in a previous interview, expressing how much joy he brought to her life and how thankful fans can be for the beautiful work he left behind.
Perry’s death was ruled an accident, with drowning, coronary artery disease, and other contributing factors listed in the toxicology report. Despite his struggles with substance abuse, Perry was known for his humor and talent, leaving behind a legacy that continues to impact those who knew and loved him. Graham continues to remember his friendship and the light he brought into her life, emphasizing the importance of his memoir in helping others.
Overall, Lauren Graham’s heartfelt remembrance of her friend Matthew Perry sheds light on the impact he had on those around him and the struggles he faced throughout his life. Despite his battles with substance abuse and depression, Perry’s legacy lives on through his work and the connections he made with others. Graham’s candid reflections on Perry’s life and death serve as a tribute to the man who brought laughter and joy to many, leaving a lasting impression on those who had the privilege of knowing him.
