- By Srishti Pandey
- Tue, 29 Oct 2024 12:30 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
A year after beloved Friends star Matthew Perry’s tragic passing, his family continues to grapple with grief while a government investigation unfolds around the circumstances of his death. Perry, best known for his iconic role as Chandler Bing, died from acute effects of ketamine, a detail revealed through his autopsy. This information, coupled with a probe that links five individuals—including Perry’s assistants and two doctors—to his overdose, has left his family with a difficult emotional journey.
In a recent interview with People magazine, Perry’s stepfather, Keith Morrison, shared insights into the family’s anguish, calling the investigation “painful.” Reflecting on the widespread attention the case has received, Morrison expressed frustration, noting that while Perry’s fame drew public interest, it also served as a sobering reminder for those involved in drug supply. “You’re going down, baby,” he said, emphasizing the serious consequences for enablers. Morrison hopes that Perry's death serves as a warning against those who profit from others' vulnerabilities.
Perry's mother, Suzanne Morrison, voiced similar sentiments in a conversation with The Today Show, expressing both sorrow and resolve. She acknowledged that despite Perry’s public battles with addiction, the family had harboured hope for his recovery. Suzanne’s grief is palpable as she shared that, even now, she sometimes finds herself picking up the phone to call him, only to remember he’s gone. “It hits me so hard that he's not there,” she said.
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To honour Perry’s legacy, his family has committed themselves to supporting addiction recovery, a cause that Perry cared about deeply. Earlier this year, they launched the Matthew Perry Foundation in Canada, while another foundation with the same name was established in the U.S. Perry’s half-sister, Caitlin Morrison, serves as executive director, carrying forward his mission to help those battling addiction.
Jennifer Aniston, Perry’s co-star and close friend, also remembered him on social media. On the one-year anniversary of his passing, she shared a touching tribute, posting heartfelt photos of the Friends cast, including a memorable snap of them embracing in a group hug. "1 year," she wrote, her words underscoring the void left by Perry’s absence.
The investigation surrounding Perry’s death has intensified, with authorities arresting five people, including his assistants, doctors and a prominent ketamine supplier. Known as the “Ketamine Queen,” the supplier, along with one of the doctors, is set to face trial in March 2025. Authorities hope the case will discourage those involved in the illegal drug trade.
Matthew Perry's memory endures in the lives he touched, not just through his television career, but in his commitment to helping others on the road to recovery.