Matthew Perry's Death Certificate Confirms Key Details

Matthew Perry, best known for his role as Chandler Bing in the long-running sitcom "Friends," died unexpectedly on October 28, 2023. While the world awaits the official cause of death for the 54-year-old actor, there have been a few reports that have outlined some details. Perry, who had experienced drug and alcohol addiction in the past, was found lifeless in what appeared to be some sort of drowning accident — early reports, though, noted that no fentanyl nor methamphetamines were found at the scene. 

Now, the actor's official death certificate has been released, according to a report from Yahoo. However, at the time of writing, there still remains details yet to be revealed. Presently, the official cause of death has been listed as "deferred" and "pending investigation," which, in this case, means additional testing needs to be undertaken to get more answers — likely further toxicology reports. The death certificate also confirms that the star was interred at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Los Angeles, and the informant on the certificate is his stepfather, Keith Morrison.

Per a report from The Blast, a 4:07 p.m. PST phone call on Saturday, October 28, initially alerted police officials to the scene — Perry's residence at Pacific Palisades, where they found the "17 Again" actor unresponsive. At the time, authorities assumed they were responding to a "water rescue." When they arrived at Perry's home, they found prescription medication – appropriately labeled — for use to treat depression, anxiety, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). COPD is an inflammatory lung disease that causes airflow blockage. It is commonly linked to heavy cigarette smoking, a habit Perry had quit weeks prior to his death, according to "Friends," co-creator Marta Kauffman.

The "Fools Rush In" star has been candid about his struggles with drug and alcohol addiction in his memoir, "Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing." As noted by The Mirror U.K., Perry is reported as having said that "Friends" is not what he wanted to be remembered for when he died. "I want helping others to be the first thing that's mentioned," shared the actor. Speaking with TODAY, Kauffman noted that she spoke with Perry just two weeks before his death. Speaking about the star's demeanor, she said, "... He was happy, and chipper. He didn't seem weighed down by anything. He was in a really good place, which is why this seems so unfair."

For fans mourning the comedy icon, it might still be a while before an official cause of death is publicly revealed. Further toxicology reports can take several weeks to process and even longer than a month to be finalized, per Mirror U.K.

If you or anyone you know needs help with addiction issues, help is available. Visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website or contact SAMHSA's National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).