Matthew Perry

Early life

Matthew Langford Perry was born on August 19, 1969, in Williamstown, Massachusetts. His mother, Suzanne Marie Morrison, is a Canadian journalist and former press secretary to Canadian Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, while his father, John Bennett Perry, is an American actor and former model.

Career

Television

Perry's television career began in the mid-1980s with minor roles. His first significant role came in 1990 when he was cast as Chazz Russell in the sitcom Second Chance. However, Perry's breakthrough role came in 1994 when he was cast as Chandler Bing in the hit sitcom Friends, a role that would catapult him to international fame and earn him an Emmy nomination in 2002.

Film

In addition to his television work, Perry has also had a successful film career. His first major film role was in the 1997 film Fools Rush In, where he starred alongside Salma Hayek. Other notable films include The Whole Nine Yards (2000) and its sequel The Whole Ten Yards (2004), and 17 Again (2009).

Theatre

Perry has also worked in the theatre. In 2003, he made his stage debut in London's West End in the play The End of Longing, which he also wrote. The play was later transferred to Off-Broadway in New York City in 2017.

Personal life

Perry has been open about his struggles with substance abuse, particularly during his time on Friends. He has been to rehab multiple times and now uses his experiences to help others struggling with addiction.

Legacy

Perry's portrayal of Chandler Bing on Friends has left a lasting impact on popular culture. His character's sarcastic wit and unique catchphrases have become iconic, and Perry's performance is often cited as a standout in the ensemble cast.