- Friday, February 21, 2025
By: Vibhuti Pathak
A new documentary titled Matthew Perry: A Hollywood Tragedy is set to premiere on Peacock on February 25, shedding light on the Friends actor’s tragic death and the events leading up to it. The special will explore Perry’s long struggle with addiction, his iconic role as Chandler Bing, and the shocking aftermath of his passing, which has resulted in multiple arrests.
The 1-minute and 50-second trailer, released alongside the announcement, gives viewers a glimpse into Perry’s life, featuring rare footage, exclusive interviews, and emotional tributes from those who knew and admired him.
Perry passed away in October 2023 due to a ketamine overdose, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate with fans and the entertainment industry. The documentary includes chilling audio from the first responders who arrived at his Los Angeles home after he was found unresponsive in his hot tub.
Morgan Fairchild, who played Chandler Bing’s mother, Nora Bing, on Friends, reflects on Perry’s impact in the trailer, saying, “He really touched people’s lives.” The special also examines the pressures of fame and how Perry’s struggles with addiction made him vulnerable. One voice in the trailer comments, “They really preyed on somebody vulnerable,” adding that the circumstances surrounding Perry’s death hint at a deeper story.
The investigation into Perry’s overdose has led to criminal charges against five individuals, including two doctors, his former personal assistant, and a woman referred to as the “Ketamine Queen.” The documentary reveals that Perry’s assistant allegedly delivered the fatal dose of ketamine.
Three of the five accused—Dr. Mark Chavez, Erik Fleming, and Kenneth Iwamasa—have already pleaded guilty, while the two remaining defendants are awaiting trial. Matthew Perry: A Hollywood Tragedy will also feature insights from U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada, who is representing the defendants yet to be convicted.
In addition to focusing on the legal aspects of Perry’s death, the documentary also highlights his unforgettable career and the outpouring of grief from fans and colleagues. The trailer closes with a heartfelt moment from Friends, in which Courteney Cox, who played Monica Geller, says, “Matthew Perry is the funniest person in the whole world.”
Directed by Robert Palumbo and produced by ITN Productions, Matthew Perry: A Hollywood Tragedy aims to give a deeper understanding of the beloved actor’s struggles, triumphs, and the devastating circumstances that led to his untimely death. The documentary is expected to spark conversations about addiction, Hollywood’s darker side, and the legal battles that continue in the wake of Perry’s passing.
