Salma Hayek has reminisced about the "special bond" that she shared with the late Matthew Perry in a touching tribute.
The famous actor, who starred as Chandler Bing in the hit 90s sitcom Friends, died aged 54 after being found unresponsive in his Los Angeles home on Saturday (October 28). It was later reported by multiple outlets that he passed due to an apparent drowning in a hot tub.
Perry's cause of death has been "deferred" as his initial autopsy results are inconclusive pending a toxicology report, according to The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner.
In addition to this, further investigation has been requested before a determination will be made - which can take several weeks - but stated that his body is ready to be released to his family. No evident signs of trauma were noted, as verified by an LA Police representative to CBS News.
The late actor is perhaps best known for starring in the hugely successful 90s sitcom Friends, alongside Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, David Schwimmer, Matt LeBlanc, and Lisa Kudrow.
The loved series ran for 10 seasons on NBC from 1994 to 2004 and turned its young cast into global stars.
Perry's family shared a heartbreaking statement in People magazine after news of his death, writing that they are "heartbroken by the tragic loss of our beloved son and brother".
"Matthew brought so much joy to the world, both as an actor and a friend," they penned.
"You all meant so much to him and we appreciate the tremendous outpouring of love," they added.
During his tenure on the popular TV show, Perry starred in films including Fools Rush In (1997), Three to Tango (1999), and The Whole Nine Yards (2000). He also took small roles in Ally McBeal and Scrubs.
Among the many heartwarming tributes to Perry is a special message from Salma Hayek - who co-starred with him in the 1997 comedy about two strangers who have a one-night stand in Las Vegas that results in a pregnancy.
While the movie wasn't a smash hit, the 57-year-old actress' emotional statement on Instagram showed that the pair had amazing chemistry and a great deal of admiration for one another.
"Two days ago, I woke up to the shocking news that Matthew Perry is no longer with us. It’s taken me a couple of days to process this profound sadness," the 57-year-old actress wrote, sharing throwback photos of the pair and a screenshot of Perry's Instagram story in which he said he "loved" the movie he made with her.
"There is a special bond that happens when you share dreams with someone, and together you work towards them," she continued. "I was very moved last year when Matthew shared on his Instagram stories how much he loved Fools Rush In, and how he thought that that film we did together was probably his best movie."
The Mexican and American star said she stayed in touch with Perry in the time since making the comedy, sharing: "Throughout the years, he and I found ourselves reminiscing about that meaningful time in our lives with a deep sense of nostalgia and gratitude."
"My friend, you are gone much too soon, but I will continue to cherish your silliness, your perseverance, and your lovely heart," she penned, "Farewell, sweet Matthew, we will never forget you."
The main cast of Friends broke their silence yesterday (October 30) and shared a joint statement to People magazine, honoring the memory of their beloved costar.
Aniston, Schwimmer, LeBlanc, Kudrow, and Cox expressed that they are "so utterly devastated by the loss of [Perry]," adding: "We were more than just cast mates. We are a family."
"There is so much to say, but right now we’re going to take a moment to grieve and process this unfathomable loss," they continued. "In time we will say more, as and when we are able."
"For now, our thoughts and our love are with Matty’s family, his friends, and everyone who loved him around the world," they concluded.
Our thoughts continue to be with Perry's family, friends and fans.
