Paying tribute to a friend - 8th November 2023

Fans of the smash hit TV sitcom 'Friends' are mourning the loss of beloved cast member Matthew Perry. The 54 year old actor was found unconscious at his Los Angeles home where first responders failed to resuscitate him. Details surrounding the cause of Perry's death are yet to be disclosed.

Despite being in front of the cameras since 11, Perry only hit it big at 24, having been cast as Chandler Bing in the pilot drama 'Six of One' which was later released as the sitcom now known as Friends. Perry, the youngest of the cast, charmed his way into the hearts of viewers worldwide, winning him international stardom.

The announcement of Perry's death saw a pilgrimage of fans paying their respects outside the Friends New York apartment. Nashville resident Hope Pace travelled to pay her tribute.

Hope Pace: "Well, I've been fighting tears since I got here. I came because I was able, and I think it's important to pay respect to people who played a big part in our culture."

Although Friends shot its finale in 2004, the sitcom remains popular around the world andavid fans like Desislaba Stoeva watch it almost religiously.

Desislaba Stoeva: "Feel very sad. It's gonna be weird rewatching it again. I actually watch it almost every day. I think he brought a lot of himself into the character and transformed it into something more than what it was."

Even though Perry was beloved and enjoyed much fame and success, the actor had his demons. Battling alcoholism from 14 and subsequently prescription drugs such as opiates, the actor sought rehabilitation on a number of occasions.

Nevertheless, the effects of these drugs dealt a severe blow to his body and overall health, eventually culminating in a brush with death. Having survived, Perry dedicated his life to advocating for people battling addiction and converted his former mansion into a rehabilitation centre.

But for the millions of Perry's fans around the world, his legacy will forever be his role as the gentle souled character, Chandler Bing in Friends.

Katie Cutler: "He was such a heartwarming, kind, uplifting person that I feel like everyone could just turn on the TV and feel immediately comforted by him."