In the final years of his life, Matthew Perry was vulnerable about sharing his journey with addiction. From detailing how he got started to the worst parts of his life under the addiction, Perry was willing to share it all with the public, and there was a reason why. The “Friends” actor revealed in a 2022 interview with Diane Sawyer, “Obviously, because I was on ‘Friends,’ more people will listen to me. So I’ve got to take advantage of that, and I’ve got to help as many people as I can.” All Perry wanted was to be a supporter and guide for those who may not have someone in their life who understands addiction as well as he did.
However, it did take some time for Perry to become as vocal about his troubled past. In 2022, he told People, “I wanted to share when I was safe from going into the dark side again. I had to wait until I was pretty safely sober—and away from the active disease of alcoholism and addiction—to write it all down. I was pretty certain that it would help people if I did.” Perry’s story has certainly brought addiction issues to the public light, and while he will always be remembered for “Friends,” the actor is sure to also be remembered for everything he’s done for those who have dealt with addiction issues like he has.
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If you or anyone you know needs help with addiction issues, help is available. Visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website or contact SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
