Matthew Perry, famously known for playing Chandler in FRIENDS, dies at 54

Matthew Perry, known for his portrayal of Chandler Bing on the iconic sitcom Friends, died at the age of 54. Born on August 19, 1969, in Williamstown, Massachusetts, he spent part of his childhood in Ottawa, Canada, where he attended elementary school with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. His mother, Suzanne Morrison, served as a journalist and press secretary to Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, while his stepfather was the well-known Dateline correspondent Keith Morrison. Perry's father, John Bennett Perry, was an actor and model, with young Matthew even making a guest appearance on his dad's cop show, 240-Robert, in 1979.

Matthew Perry's tragic death

The news of Perry's passing was met with shock and sadness. He was found at a Los Angeles-area residence in a tragic incident on Saturday. According to TMZ, he was discovered in a jacuzzi, with no drugs found at the scene. The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed they responded to a call regarding the death of a male in his 50s but did not confirm the identity of the deceased. Law enforcement sources, as reported by TMZ, stated that there was no foul play involved, and first responders were called to the residence for a case of cardiac arrest.

TMZ quoted, "Law enforcement sources tell us the actor was found Saturday at an L.A.-area home ... where we're told he appears to have drowned. Our sources say first-responders rushed over on a call for cardiac arrest. It's unclear where exactly on the grounds this happened."

They further quoted, "We're told Matthew came home sometime in the AM after a 2-hour round of pickleball, and that he sent his assistant out on errand shortly thereafter. We're told when the assistant returned about 2 hours later, he discovered Matthew unresponsive ... and called 911."

Matthew Perry's Hollywood ascent

At a young age, Perry relocated to Los Angeles and began his journey in the entertainment industry. He initially appeared in a few TV guest roles before his career gained momentum. 

His recurring role as Chazz Russell in Boys Will Be Boys from 1987 to 1988 was followed by appearances on Growing Pains and Sydney. However, it was in 1994 that he achieved his big break by joining the cast of the beloved NBC sitcom Friends.

Chandler Bing's sarcasm-infused legacy

Matthew Perry endeared himself to millions of viewers with his portrayal of Chandler Bing, a witty and sarcastic character who was part of the tight-knit group of friends at the center of the show. Perry's impeccable comedic timing and distinctive charm in the role earned him widespread acclaim. He remained a fixture on the show for all ten seasons and even secured an Emmy nomination in 2002 for his outstanding performance.