Friends creators reflect on Matthew Perry"s death during 30th anniversary

The sitcom 'Friends' is celebrating its 30th anniversary this month, marking a significant milestone for the beloved show. However, the occasion is overshadowed by the recent death of cast member Matthew Perry, who portrayed Chandler Bing. Perry passed away on October 28, 2023, due to an apparent drowning in a hot tub, with an autopsy revealing the acute effects of ketamine as the cause of death. His passing has left a profound impact on fans, cast, and crew alike. Co-creators Marta Kauffman and David Crane, along with executive producer Kevin Bright, expressed their sentiments regarding Perry's death during this anniversary celebration. Kauffman described the loss as 'huge' and noted that it makes the 30th anniversary 'a little fraught.' Bright reflected on Perry's ability to bring laughter to their daily lives, highlighting the deep connection they shared as a cast. Perry's struggles with addiction were well-documented throughout his career, and he had previously been offered the chance to leave the show due to these issues. However, he chose to stay, stating that the experience of being on 'Friends' was crucial to him. In a 2022 interview, he acknowledged that remaining on the show likely saved his life, thanks to the support of his castmates who were aware of his challenges. As the show commemorates its legacy, the memory of Matthew Perry will continue to resonate with fans and colleagues, reminding them of the joy he brought to the series and the impact he had on their lives.