A woman who went for lunch with Matthew Perry that day before he sadly passed away has opened up about what they discussed that night.
As previously reported, first responders were called to Perry's Los Angeles residence, only to discover the 54-year-old star in an unresponsive state in a hot tub. Despite their swift efforts, Perry could not be revived, and he was subsequently declared dead.
While the preliminary toxicology findings eliminate certain drugs, law enforcement has reportedly confirmed the discovery of an assortment of prescription medications, including antidepressants, anti-anxiety drugs, and a COPD-related medication, at his residence, as per TMZ reports.
Following these revelations, the Los Angeles County Coroner conducted a conclusive autopsy on October 29. However, it's important to note that definitive results may remain elusive for some time.
Athenna Crosby, a 25-year-old model and entertainment reporter, met Perry for lunch at the Hotel Bel-Air the day before he died and has since revealed to the Daily Mail what they discussed.
She observed that he appeared healthy, happy, and had quit smoking. During their meal, Perry refrained from ordering alcoholic beverages and expressed his focus on fitness and his newfound interest in pickleball.
"I think he was really serious about revamping himself into a whole new man," she said.
During the lunch, Athenna learned about Perry's plans for the future, including his desire to start a foundation to help individuals dealing with substance abuse.
Athenna recalled how Perry shared advice about handling fame and cautioned her about the dangers of prescription pain medications, which had been a gateway to his own addiction.
"He wanted to start his foundation to help people struggling with substance abuse, whether alcohol or drug addiction," Athenna said. "He also really wanted to have a movie made about his life. He was an actor and he wanted to get back into it."
She hopes that those close to Perry and the entertainment industry can fulfill his vision. Athenna also emphasized the importance of learning from Perry's life and struggles, striving to be better, and caring for those we love.
Athenna said: "It just goes to show that even people who are rich and famous can struggle with loneliness or substance abuse, but at the end of the day, if you can't use your fame and popularity to help others, what legacy do you really leave?
"Even though he struggled, that did not stop him from being an amazingly generous and nice person," she said. "I think he understood that very, very well. He knew that he needed to make this a moment much bigger than him."
Perry's loved ones, including his Friends co-stars, have since gathered at a small funeral in LA to send their final farewells.
