TMZ is reporting that one of the stars of Friends, Matthew Perry, has died at 54. TMZ reported earlier from a law enforcement source:

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.

Later TMZ updated it’s reporting to say that an assistant found Mr. Perry unresponspive at his Los Angeles area home:

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 Steven Perry was born on August 19, 1969, in Williamstown, Massachusetts. From a young age, he exhibited a natural talent for humor and performance, a gift that would ultimately lead him to Hollywood and into the hearts of millions.

Matthew’s breakthrough role came in the 1990s when he portrayed Chandler Bing on the hit television series “Friends.” His impeccable comedic timing, wit, and endearing charm made Chandler one of the most beloved characters in the history of television. Matthew’s portrayal of Chandler not only brought laughter to living rooms across the globe but also created lifelong connections with his co-stars, Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, and David Schwimmer. The chemistry and camaraderie among the cast were a significant part of the show’s success.

Mr Perry detailed his struggles with addiction in a 2022 Memoir “Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing”. In the book he spoke of his Vicodin addiction, taking up to 55 pills a day during Friend’s third season. He also mentioned abusing Xanax, OxyContin, Dilaudid, Methadone, and Cocaine.

Matthew’s talents extended beyond acting; he was also a dedicated advocate for addiction recovery and mental health awareness. His personal struggles with addiction inspired him to use his platform for good, and he worked tirelessly to raise awareness and support those facing similar challenges.

“I think you actually have to have all of your dreams come true to realize they are the wrong dreams.” Matthew Perry