Matthew Perry: Friends TV comedy star dies at 54

US actor Matthew Perry, widely known for his iconic role as Chandler Bing in the beloved ’90s TV sitcom Friends, has passed away at the age of 54. Reports indicate that he was found lifeless at his Los Angeles residence, with sources citing a discovery in his home’s hot tub.

Friends, which followed the lives of six friends in New York City, aired from 1994 to 2004 and became a cultural phenomenon. Its final episode remains the most-watched TV episode of the 2000s in the US, with 52.5 million viewers.

Perry’s tragic demise was first reported by the LA Times and TMZ. According to them, he was found unresponsive in a hot tub at his home in Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles. The news has sent shockwaves across the entertainment industry and beyond.

Born in Massachusetts in 1969 and raised in Ottawa, Canada, Perry achieved global fame for his portrayal of Chandler Bing. The witty character earned him an Emmy nomination in 2002, contributing significantly to Friends’ monumental success.

Perry faced personal challenges, including struggles with addiction to painkillers and alcohol. In 2016, he revealed on BBC Radio 2 that he couldn’t recall three years of filming Friends due to his battles with substance abuse.

His recent project, the Friends reunion, allowed fans to reminisce about the iconic show’s impact. Perry’s later TV work included roles in The West Wing and Studio 60 On The Sunset Strip, along with his own show, Mr. Sunshine.

News of Perry’s passing has prompted an outpouring of grief from colleagues and friends in the entertainment industry. His co-stars, such as Maggie Wheeler and Morgan Fairchild, expressed their sadness and paid tribute to the actor’s talent and warmth.

Perry’s final significant TV project, The Odd Couple reboot, lasted for three seasons. His last Instagram post, shared five days ago, eerily featured a photo of himself in a hot tub. The circumstances surrounding his passing are still under investigation, and fans worldwide mourn the loss of a beloved actor who left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.