The Matthew Perry Foundation Is Established In Late Actor’s Memory – Deadline

Matthew Perry‘s dream of establishing a foundation for those struggling with substance abuse has been realized. The Matthew Perry Foundation is officially up and running and accepting donations.

Before his untimely October 28 death, Perry’s plan was to start a foundation to help others overcome drug and alcohol abuse. “When I die, I don’t want ‘Friends’ to be the first thing that’s mentioned — I want helping others to be the first thing that’s mentioned. And I’m going to live the rest of my life proving that,” Perry was quoted previously as saying, adding “Addiction is far too powerful for anyone to defeat alone. But together, one day at a time, we can beat it down.”

Following his sudden passing, his friends and loved ones had hoped to turn his dream into reality and that has now happened.

“In the spirit of Matthew Perry’s enduring commitment to helping others struggling with the disease of addiction, we embark on a journey to honor his legacy by establishing the Matthew Perry Foundation, guided by his own words and experiences, and driven by his passion for making a difference in as many lives as possible,” read a statement accompanying the announcement of the Foundation.

To support the work of the Foundation, please go to matthewperryfoundation.org. Thank you.”

Perry, a recovering addict, was found unconscious Saturday, October 28 in a hot tub at his L.A. home by first responders who were unable to revive him. An autopsy has been conducted, but the cause of death has been deferred pending the results of toxicology reports. He was 54.

The comedic actor is best known for playing the sassy and snappy, but affable Chandler Bing on Friends during the hit Warner Bros. TV series’ 10-season run on NBC.

In addition to worldwide fame, the role also earned Perry an Emmy nomination.