Following the tragic death of Matthew Perry, his cause of death has now been confirmed.
The devastating news broke on Saturday 28, confirming the passing of the 54-year-old Friends actor. First responders found Perry unresponsive at his Los Angeles residence.
The Los Angeles Times reported that authorities arrived at the scene around 4:00PM on Saturday, October 28, discovering him in an unresponsive state in a hot tub, before he was later declared dead.
Perry's family issued a brief but poignant statement, expressing their gratitude to his fans for the outpouring of support.
Perry's family told People: "We 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. You all meant so much to him, and we appreciate the tremendous outpouring of love."
At the time of his passing, law enforcement informed the LA Times that no drugs were discovered at the scene, and stated that no foul play was involved in the star's untimely passing.
Perry's official cause of death has now been confirmed, as reported by TMZ.
Per the toxicology report from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office, Perry died from "the acute effects of ketamine." The exact method of intake has not been determined.
Drowning, coronary artery disease and the effects of buprenorphine (used to treat opioid use disorder) have been listed as contributing factors in his death. The manner of death was ruled an accident.
Perry had been undergoing ketamine infusion therapy before he died, reportedly for depression and anxiety. The toxicology report goes on to note: "At the high levels of ketamine found in his postmortem blood specimens, the main lethal effects would be from both cardiovascular overstimulation and respiratory depression."
Perry was widely recognized for his role as Chandler Bing in Friends, a role that made him a household name. The immensely popular sitcom ran from 1994 to 2004, featuring a star-studded cast including Lisa Kudrow, Courteney Cox, David Schwimmer, Matt Le Blanc, and Jennifer Aniston, with Perry joining the cast at just 24 years old.
Upon learning of the devastating incident, Perry's former co-stars issued a joint statement to People, expressing their profound sorrow: "We are all so utterly devastated by the loss of Matthew. 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.
"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."
Fans also paid their respects at the iconic Friends apartment in New York City, leaving personal tributes for the actor who had touched their lives. At the base of the intersection's stop sign, near the famous apartment building exterior used in the show, a touching collection of bouquets and handwritten notes has been left.
One note, as reported by the Independent, read: "All I knew is that whenever I had big feelings, I could pop in a VHS box set of a given season in the VCR and not just feel okay, but even laugh. As reliable as a true friend, 20 years later, Friends is still my comfort show. Thank you, Matty, for making me feel peace and joy, from middle school to my mid-thirties."
Our thoughts continue to be with Perry's loved ones during this time.
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