The death of Emmy-nominated actor and "Friends" alumni Matthew Perry devastated fans and Hollywood alike after law enforcement confirmed his passing on Saturday.
Perry, who was beloved for his performance as the sarcastic Chandler Bing in the hit NBC 90s sitcom "Friends," was found unresponsive Saturday. First responders received a call for a water rescue in connection with the 54-year-old actor's death.
No foul play was suspected.
Actors and studios have posted tributes to the 54-year-old Perry as word of his death spread through the industry. Warner Bros. Television Group, which produced “Friends,'' issued a statement calling the five-time Emmy nominee a "comedic genius.''
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“We are devastated by the passing of our dear friend Matthew Perry,'' the studio said in a statement.. “Matthew was an incredibly gifted actor and an indelible part of the Warner Bros. Television Group family. The impact of his comedic genius was felt around the world, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of so many. This is a heartbreaking day, and we send our love to his family, his loved ones, and all of his devoted fans.”
"Friends" was broadcast on NBC from 1994 to the final season in 2004.
"We are incredibly saddened by the too soon passing of Matthew Perry. He brought so much joy to hundreds of millions of people around the world with his pitch perfect comedic timing and wry wit," NBC said in a statement. "His legacy will live on through countless generations.''
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Childhood classmate and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also posted a tribute.
“I’ll never forget the schoolyard games we used to play, and I know people around the world are never going to forget the joy he brought them,” Trudeau wrote. “Thanks for all the laughs, Matthew. You were loved — and you will be missed.”
Perry’s mother was press secretary to Trudeau's father, Pierre Trudeau, during his time as prime minister.
In Las Vegas, Adele paused Saturday night to talk about Perry during her show.
“I just want to say how much I love what he did for us,” she said to the cheering crowd.
Saturday Night Live also showed a tribute card for Perry, who hosted the show in 1997 He was featured in a sketch where he played Matt LeBlanc’s character Joey and Colin Quinn played Chandler.
See below for reactions and condolences from Hollywood studios and stars.
