The entertainment world was left in shock and sorrow as news broke about the passing of beloved actor Matthew Perry.

Known for his iconic portrayal of Chandler Bing in the hit ’90s sitcom “Friends,” Perry’s career spanned decades and touched the hearts of millions worldwide.

On a fateful Saturday, he was found at an L.A.-area home, where it appears he tragically drowned. First responders rushed to the scene following a call for cardiac arrest, but despite their efforts, the actor could not be revived. While the circumstances of his death remain heartbreaking, it is essential to remember the life and legacy of this talented actor.

Matthew Perry’s career was defined by his role as Chandler Bing, a character that became a fan favorite and a cultural phenomenon. “Friends” ran for an impressive ten seasons, with Perry appearing in all 234 episodes.

His witty one-liners and quirky mannerisms made Chandler Bing an iconic character whose catchphrases continue to be recreated and spoofed by fans around the world. Lines like “Could (blank) BE more ..” became part of the pop culture lexicon, and Perry’s impeccable comedic timing endeared him to audiences of all ages.

While “Friends” was undoubtedly his most significant claim to fame, Matthew Perry’s talent extended far beyond Central Perk. He graced countless other TV shows over the years, leaving his mark on the industry.

Some of his notable TV appearances included “Boys Will Be Boys,” “Growing Pains,” “Silver Spoons,” “Charles in Charge,” “Sydney,” “Beverly Hills, 90210,” “Home Free,” “Ally McBeal,” “The West Wing,” “Scrubs,” “Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip,” “Go On,” “The Odd Couple,” and more. His versatility as an actor allowed him to seamlessly transition between various roles and genres, showcasing his undeniable acting prowess.

In addition to his television career, Perry ventured into the world of film, particularly in comedy. Memorable films such as “Fools Rush In,” “The Whole Nine Yards,” “Three to Tango,” “The Kid,” “17 Again,” and “Getting In” featured Perry’s trademark humor and charm. His ability to bring humor to the big screen solidified his status as a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.

Behind the scenes, Matthew Perry battled personal demons that were at odds with his affable onscreen persona.

Throughout his life, he struggled with addiction, particularly to drugs and alcohol, with painkillers, specifically Vicodin, being a significant source of his addiction. His battle with addiction persisted even during his time on “Friends,” and he sought help through multiple stints in rehab.

Matthew Perry courageously opened up about this painful chapter of his life in a memoir published last year. In his book, he candidly detailed the hardships he faced, including the visible weight fluctuations he experienced during the show. During the press tour for his memoir, Perry’s interviews revealed the depth of his struggles, and he became an advocate for others fighting similar battles. His emotional interview with Diane Sawyer left a lasting impact as he shared his journey to recovery with the world.

While Perry appeared to be on the path to recovery a year ago, there were concerning moments during the promotion of the “Friends” reunion show the year prior. Fans expressed concern as they noticed instances where he appeared unwell, occasionally slurring his words and looking disoriented. These moments served as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle he faced with his health.

In addition to his addiction, Matthew Perry also grappled with various health issues, some of which were severe enough to require hospitalizations. One such incident arose from a gastrointestinal perforation, necessitating emergency surgery. Fortunately, he successfully recovered from this life-threatening event, but it highlighted the fragility of his health.

Despite the challenges in his personal life, Matthew Perry’s work continued to be celebrated by his fans. He never married but was briefly engaged to Molly Hurwitz a couple of years ago, although the engagement sadly came to an end after only six months. Throughout his life, he was also romantically linked to Lizzy Caplan and other notable figures.

Matthew Perry’s untimely passing at the age of 54 has left a void in the entertainment industry and the hearts of his fans worldwide. His talent, humor, and resilience in the face of personal struggles are part of his enduring legacy.

As we remember this iconic actor, we also reflect on the importance of addressing addiction and mental health issues, destigmatizing them, and offering support to those who need it.

Matthew Perry’s story serves as a reminder that behind the laughter and fame, there can be profound pain, and it is up to all of us to be compassionate and understanding as we navigate life’s challenges. Rest in peace, Matthew Perry, and thank you for the laughter and memories you brought into our lives.

WATCH AND REMEMBER MATTHEW PERRY: