Keith Morrison, the host of “Dateline,” has publicly addressed the death of his stepson, Matthew Perry, a renowned actor best known for his role in the TV show “Friends.”
Perry, 54, was found unresponsive in a jacuzzi at his home in Pacific Palisades, California, and pronounced dead on October 28, 2023, due to an apparent drowning. The official cause of death is still pending a toxicology report and further investigation.
Morrison, who has been married to Perry’s mother, Suzanne Langford Perry, since 1981, did not initially speak to the press about his stepson’s death. However, he broke his silence on November 27, 2023, on X (formerly known as Twitter), aligning his statement with Giving Tuesday.
In his post, Morrison emphasized the significance of the Matthew Perry Foundation, which focuses on helping people struggling with addiction. This foundation was established following Perry’s death and aims to continue the actor’s commitment to aiding others battling addiction.
Throughout his life, Perry was vocal about his struggles with addiction. He openly discussed spending $9 million in efforts to achieve sobriety, including undergoing several rehabilitation stints. He detailed these experiences in his 2022 memoir and was living in a treatment facility during the filming of the iconic “Friends” episode where his character, Chandler, marries Monica. Perry’s struggle with addiction and his commitment to helping others were central to his life narrative.
The foundation’s website quotes Perry from a 2022 podcast interview on “Q With Tom Power,” where he expressed a desire to be remembered for helping others rather than just for his role in “Friends.”
Perry’s “Friends” co-star Jennifer Aniston also showed support for the foundation, encouraging donations and acknowledging Perry’s passion for aiding those dealing with addiction.
In addition to Morrison’s and Aniston’s support, Perry’s family has reflected on his mission to assist those struggling with substance use. On Giving Tuesday, they emphasized the importance of honoring Perry’s legacy through the foundation, which they hope will significantly impact the fight against addiction.
Matthew Perry’s life, marked by his battle with addiction and his dedication to helping others facing similar challenges, has left a lasting impact. His family, including Morrison and his mother, Suzanne Perry, have been vocal in their support of the foundation established in his name, aiming to transform how addiction is perceived and treated.
