The «Friends» sitcom actor was found dead on October 28, 2023, in his home.
Matthew Perry’s sister gave an exclusive interview after his tragic death to Canadian HELLO!. Along with the actor’s stepfather, she talked about how the family is coping with the loss and continuing his legacy. Perry died from an overdose of a prescription medication that is known to be addictive at the age of 54 in his California home. While the public was shocked by the death of their beloved «Friends» star, his family had to endure a difficult year filled with grief and learn to move on without him. Canadian HELLO! spoke with Matthew’s stepfather, Keith Morrison, and his younger sister, Kaitlyn, who want to carry on his good work through a new project—the Matthew Perry Canadian Foundation.
«The work I’m doing right now is very difficult and even selfish because I feel like I’m sitting next to Matthew and working with him every day on something that’s important to him,» Kaitlyn shared in her first interview since her brother’s passing.
Kaitlyn’s new role as executive director of the recently established charity helps her cope with the loss.
«I have this treasure—the opportunity to be very, very close to him all the time,» she explained. «And that’s wonderful.»
The Perry Family, screenshot from the Canadian version of HELLO!
Matthew’s stepfather, Keith, confessed that he is proud to continue his stepson’s good work.
«He would want to be remembered for doing something to help people struggling with addiction,» he stated.
Matthew’s loved ones acknowledged that the actor had struggled with psychological challenges and addictions throughout his life, but despite this, Keith noted that the family member’s death was a significant shock to them.
«When Matthew suddenly died, it was an incredible shock. Anyone who has lost a child will tell you that even if you’re somewhat prepared for it, it’s devastating. We decided to focus on his legacy and try to do something useful,» Morrison concluded.
The Matthew Perry Canadian Foundation will focus on helping people with addiction after detoxification by providing the support needed to achieve sobriety. The foundation plans to assist those in need with housing, as well as counseling, food support, vocational training, and employment services.
«He had an amazing ability to light up everything around him,» Kaitlyn added. «When people were in the room with Matthew, there was this magnetic energy. Everyone had a smile on their face, and they were hanging on to everything he said.»