First anniversary of Matthew Perry’s death: Family gives moving interview

“Even now, when something funny happens, I pick up the phone to call him” – with these moving words Suzanne Morrison describes the loss of her son Matthew Perry (1969-2023). In an interview with the “Today Show”, the mother of the “Friends” star spoke with his stepfather Keith Morrison and his sisters Caitlin, Madeline and Emily about the time since the actor’s death a year ago.

The actor died on October 28, 2023 at the age of 54 as a result of an accidental overdose. “He was always very lonely in his soul,” recalls his mother Suzanne in an interview with presenter Savannah Guthrie. After years of battling addiction, she learned a painful lesson: “You have to stop blaming yourself because it’s eating you up inside.”

His sisters also share their memories. “He was always there,” Madeline says through tears. Emily adds: “Although he was always grumpy, he was also always funny. When the people he loved were successful or afraid – he would have done anything for you.”

The family also revealed new details about Perry’s death. So they knew about his ketamine treatment for depression, but not to what extent he used the drug. “I don’t even know if he had a relapse in his head,” says his sister Madeline thoughtfully.

To continue the actor’s legacy, the family is now involved in the Matthew Perry Foundation. The organization supports people fighting addictions. “What Matthew taught the world is that no amount of money in the world can cure an addict,” emphasizes his stepfather Keith Morrison.

Despite the difficult time, the family still feels connected to Perry. “I don’t think there’s anyone here who doesn’t talk to him,” says his sister Caitlin. The sadness will remain, but the family finds comfort in helping others: “This is not just our tragedy. This happens to people every day.”