Netflix has announced a new three-part documentary about the life of Matthew Perry, the actor best known for playing Chandler Bing on the hit sitcom Friends. Titled The One With Matthew Perry, the series will be released on 27 October and promises an intimate look at the man behind the beloved character.
The documentary is anchored by never-before-heard testimonies from Perry's sister, Mia Perry Bowick, and his closest friends. It also draws on unreleased photographs and videos from the Perry family's private archive, tracing his journey from a rising comedic star to the global icon fans still adore.
A sister's tribute
In a statement, Perry Bowick reflected on the difficulty of sharing these memories. "It's taken time for me to feel ready to share these memories and what it was like to love Matthew through all the complexity of his life - to see him as a whole person, not just as Chandler, and not just as someone who struggled with addiction," she said.
She added: "As his sister, he shaped who I am today, the person I strive to be and the work to which I've devoted my life. Matthew had a beautiful heart and a generous spirit, and even in his darkest moments, he could still make you laugh and feel loved. I hope this series gives everyone who loved him, whether personally or from afar, a deeper appreciation for who he truly was, and the legacy he leaves behind."
The series also weaves in first-hand memories from creative collaborators and friends who supported him, alongside candid new details about his private struggles. It remains unclear whether any of Perry's Friends co-stars will appear.
Perry was found unresponsive in a hot tub at his Los Angeles home on 28 October 2023 and pronounced dead at the age of 54. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's Office ruled his death was caused by "acute effects of ketamine," with contributing factors including drowning, coronary artery disease, and the effects of buprenorphine, a medication used to treat opioid use disorder.
The documentary arrives nearly two years after Perry's death, offering a deeper look into the life of a performer who brought laughter to millions while battling personal demons. For European audiences who grew up watching Friends reruns on channels like Channel 4 in the UK or RTL in Germany, the series may resonate as a reminder of the show's enduring cultural impact across the continent.
As Netflix continues to expand its true-crime and celebrity documentary slate, this project stands out for its focus on a beloved figure whose struggles were often hidden behind his comedic persona. The series promises to be a heartfelt tribute, shedding light on the complexities of fame, addiction, and recovery.
With the release date set for 27 October, fans across Europe and beyond will soon have the opportunity to remember Perry not just as Chandler, but as a man who touched many lives.
