One year after the death of the 'Friends' star, his family and loved ones speak out about the ongoing government investigation and the impact of addiction.
- Oct 29, 2024
AceShowbiz - One year ago, the world mourned the loss of beloved actor Matthew Perry. In the aftermath of his untimely passing, a government investigation has been launched, adding complexity to the emotions experienced by Perry's family.
According to United States Attorney Martin Estrada, Perry was allegedly taken advantage of by five individuals, who have since been charged in connection with his death. Among the accused are Perry's personal live-in assistant, two doctors, a drug dealer known as "The Ketamine Queen," and an acquaintance who coordinated the sale of ketamine.
Perry's stepfather Keith Morrison expressed his anger and frustration over the revelations that have emerged during the investigation. He suspects that Perry's status as a public figure played a role in the charges being brought against the defendants.
"It makes you angry," Morrison told PEOPLE. "It's painful to think that these people may have preyed on Matthew's vulnerability."
Perry's mother Suzanne Morrison expressed her gratitude for the accountability that has been established in his death. She hopes that the investigation will deter others from enabling drug abuse.
"I'm thrilled that there has been some accountability," Suzanne said. "We want to send a message that supplying people with drugs that will kill them will not be tolerated."
Despite the ongoing investigation, Perry's family also highlighted his legacy of helping others and encouraging them to seek help for addiction.
"Matthew believed that addiction was not a moral failing," Keith Morrison said. "It's a disease that affects countless people, and we're determined to address it through the Matthew Perry Foundation."
The family announced the launch of the Canadian arm of the foundation, which will provide support for individuals in recovery and fund research on addiction. They also established the Matthew Perry Foundation of the U.S. shortly after Perry's death, which makes grants to organizations dedicated to supporting people on their recovery journeys.
Perry's struggles with addiction were a recurring theme throughout his life, including during his time on the hit sitcom "Friends". His 2022 memoir "Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing" further shed light on his experiences with substance abuse.
Through their advocacy and the establishment of the Matthew Perry Foundation, his family hopes to honor his memory and raise awareness about the devastating impact of addiction. They believe that his death can serve as a catalyst for change and help others in need.