‘Let’s Fight the Disease’: Friends Creator Marta Kauffman Tells Fans ‘Two Things’ That’ll Celebrate the Memory of Matthew Perry

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As a die-hard Friends fan who grew up laughing, crying, and growing with the characters, I wholeheartedly support Marta Kauffman‘s call to honor the late, great Matthew Perry by supporting drug rehabilitation facilities. Losing Chandler Bing was like losing a dear friend; his wit, charm, and humor brought countless moments of joy to our lives.

Marta Kauffman, one of the creators behind Friends, is asking fans to remember the late actor by donating to substance abuse recovery centers. Famous for his unforgettable portrayal of Chandler Bing on the beloved sitcom, Perry tragically passed away on October 28, 2023, due to an accidental drug overdose.

During an interview with The Times for a special 30th-anniversary look back at Friends, Kauffman shared ideas on how fans could pay tribute to the memory of Perry. She proposed two important methods to do so.

The initial step is to aid drug rehabilitation facilities, underscoring the significance of tackling addiction, a challenge that Perry has faced personally. “Let’s combat this illness,” Kauffman emphasized, stressing the ongoing requirement for assistance and resources for those seeking help.

by rewatching Friends and appreciating his remarkable humor and talent. She highlighted that Perry’s memory should be cherished for the joy he brought to viewers through his performances on the show, rather than focusing on how he departed from this world. In essence, Kauffman encouraged remembering Perry for his extraordinary ability to make people laugh and feel happy, not for the circumstances surrounding his passing.

Kauffman and David Crane shared their last chat with Perry, reminiscing about their cherished moments together and the significant role he played in their project. During this discussion on Today, they underscored Perry’s lasting impact and the heartfelt bond they shared as coworkers and friends.

Kauffman recalled Perry as being remarkably lively and optimistic during their last encounter. He underscored that Perry seemed to be in high spirits, showing no indications of worry or turmoil. In Kauffman’s words, Perry’s sunny disposition now stands out as particularly unfair, given that he seemed to be thriving and secure at the time.

Federal charges in Perry’s death highlight concerns about exploitation

On August 15, it was made public that five individuals associated with Perry’s death are facing significant accusations, according to the Department of Justice. Among those charged are two doctors, Dr. Salvador Plascencia and Dr. Mark Chavez, in addition to Perry’s live-in assistant. Kenneth Iwamasa and Erik Fleming have been indicted as well, although their charges seem unrelated to the others.

As an ardent fan, I can’t help but express my outrage over the recent allegations against those accused. They’re said to have exploited the struggles of a beloved figure, Perry, for their own financial gain. This despicable act has left me seething with anger, especially knowing that it’s my idol who has suffered as a result. It’s clear to me now that these individuals were more preoccupied with exploiting his weaknesses rather than genuinely caring for his well-being.

In my perspective, the comments made by Estrada bring light to the unjust treatment that Perry endured at the hands of those who were supposed to provide care and comfort. This revelation has cast suspicion on the circumstances surrounding Perry’s death, revealing a troubling misuse of power and trust.

Following the revelation of the charges, Perry’s stepfather, Keith Morrison, expressed his desire for “justice” through a statement to PEOPLE. The Department of Justice has disclosed that Dr. Salvador Plascencia and Jasveen Sangha will be accused of severe offenses. Similarly, Dr. Mark Chavez, Erik Fleming, and assistant Kenneth Iwamasa have been charged individually. As stated by US Attorney Martin Estrada, these individuals are alleged to have taken advantage of Perry’s addiction struggles for their own benefit.

Estrada underscored that instead of prioritizing Mr. Perry’s health and welfare, the accused aimed to capitalize on his situation. This case underscores a grave concern about taking advantage of vulnerable individuals and underscores the importance of responsibility in instances of professional misbehavior and breach of trust.

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2024-08-18 18:46