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In a heartbreaking revelation, the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's office confirmed that beloved "Friends" actor Matthew Perry succumbed to "the acute effects of ketamine." Perry, known for his iconic portrayal of Chandler Bing, passed away at 54, marking the end of a tumultuous battle with addiction and health challenges.
The medical examiner's statement cited drowning, coronary artery disease, and the impact of buprenorphine (used to treat opioid use disorder) as contributing factors to Perry's accidental death. The actor was discovered unconscious in a hot tub at his Los Angeles residence on October 28, and despite efforts by first responders, he could not be revived. An inconclusive initial post-mortem awaited a comprehensive toxicology report.
Perry's struggles with addiction were well-documented, with multiple stints in rehabilitation clinics to combat painkiller and alcohol dependency. In 2018, a burst colon, attributed to drug usage, led to multiple surgeries. His candid memoir, "Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing," published in the previous year, detailed his numerous detox experiences, dedicating the book to "all of the sufferers out there."
While Perry claimed sobriety since 2001, admitting to occasional setbacks, his sudden demise sent shockwaves through Hollywood and touched the hearts of his co-stars and global "Friends" enthusiasts. Jennifer Aniston, who played Rachel, expressed the profound impact Perry had on their lives, describing the cast as a "chosen family" that forever altered their paths.
Matt LeBlanc, Perry's on-screen roommate and best friend, reminisced about the cherished moments they shared, emphasizing the deep bond forged during their years on "Friends." As the entertainment world mourns the loss of a talented actor, this story unfolds the tragic journey of Matthew Perry, from the pinnacle of "Friends" fame to the shadows of addiction, leaving an indelible mark on those who knew and loved him.
