In a tragic turn of events, Matthew Perry, renowned for his role as Chandler Bing in the iconic TV sitcom “Friends,” passed away at the age of 54. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s office revealed on Friday that Perry succumbed to the “acute effects of ketamine.”

The actor, who had grappled with addiction and associated health complications for decades, was found unconscious in a hot tub at his Los Angeles residence on October 28.

Despite the efforts of first responders, Perry could not be revived, and an initial post-mortem examination yielded inconclusive results, awaiting a comprehensive toxicology report.

The medical examiner’s statement outlined additional factors contributing to Perry’s demise, including drowning, coronary artery disease, and the effects of buprenorphine, a medication used to treat opioid use disorder. The official determination of the death is labeled as an accident.

Perry’s struggles with addiction were well-documented, leading him to seek treatment in multiple rehabilitation clinics over the years. In 2018, he faced a health crisis with a burst colon, directly linked to drug use, prompting multiple surgeries.

While Perry entertained millions with his on-screen humor on “Friends” and amassed wealth, his battles persisted.

In his memoir, “Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing,” published last year, he candidly recounted undergoing detox numerous times and dedicated the book to “all of the sufferers out there,” acknowledging the fragility of his own existence.

Despite his intermittent setbacks, Perry expressed periods of sobriety since 2001, with his memoir revealing, “I should be dead,” noting occasional lapses over the years.

The sudden news of Perry’s passing sent shockwaves through Hollywood, prompting heartfelt reactions from A-listers, co-stars, and fans worldwide.

Jennifer Aniston, who portrayed Rachel on “Friends,” shared on Instagram, “Oh boy this one has cut deep. He was such a part of our DNA,” while Matt LeBlanc, who played Perry’s on-screen roommate and best friend, reflected on the cherished times they spent together, declaring them among the favorite moments of his life.

Matthew Perry’s legacy will undoubtedly endure through the laughter and camaraderie he shared with audiences during the golden years of “Friends.”

(JR AMIGO/AI/MNM)