Friends star Matthew Perry’s struggles with addiction and health complications, as well as his final years, were detailed in a new Netflix documentary released on October 27. The film explores the challenges Perry faced during his career and personal life, while also highlighting the impact he had on those around him.

Perry, widely known for his role as Chandler Bing on the long-running sitcom Friends, battled substance abuse for years. Director Jonathan Lynn, who worked with Perry on the film The Whole Nine Yards, described the actor as appearing in denial about his drinking and pill use, noting that Perry would turn quickly to substances whenever work or life challenges arose.

Perry’s sister, Mia, recalled that he secretly managed his addiction while filming Friends, often taking just enough substances to function without appearing intoxicated. Mia explained to the documentary that Perry endured withdrawal symptoms during breaks in filming, which had become a difficult but unspoken part of his routine. Their father, also an actor, would sometimes intervene to help him during these periods. Perry himself had spoken openly about the emotional toll of his fractured relationship with his father, who lived in Los Angeles while Perry grew up in Canada, and whose presence in his life was limited largely to television appearances.

Despite ongoing struggles, Perry was often a source of support for others facing addiction. Restaurateur Tim Harrington met Perry at an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting in 2001 and described how Perry invited him to live together; the pair attended daily AA meetings and provided mutual support.

Perry’s health deteriorated significantly in August 2018 after years of opioid abuse when his colon ruptured in multiple places. According to Mia Perry, the actor required a colostomy bag and round-the-clock care, with nursing and sober companionship becoming a constant in his life. He developed sepsis and remained hospitalized for three months, with his survival uncertain. Though this episode was seen by many as a potential turning point, his health continued to decline following his discharge.

After leaving the hospital, Perry needed continuous care, which was initially provided by Kenneth Iwamasa, a former assistant to Perry’s manager. Mia Perry initially viewed Iwamasa’s involvement positively, but subsequent revelations painted a darker picture. Iwamasa, who had no medical training, was later convicted and sentenced to 41 months in prison for his role in supplying Perry with ketamine, a drug that contributed to the actor’s death. Court findings revealed that Iwamasa, in coordination with two doctors, administered ketamine injections to Perry in the weeks leading up to his passing.

Matthew Perry died tragically in a hot tub three years ago. Friends and colleagues remember him not only for his public persona but also for his kindness and generosity. Actor Bryan Strauss, who worked with Perry in the late 1990s, recalled the star’s dedication and humility on set, describing him as considerate and approachable despite his fame. Strauss said those who knew Perry hope audiences recognize the person beyond his public struggles.

Though none of Perry’s Friends co-stars appeared in the Netflix tribute, the documentary underscores the lasting affection and admiration held by those who knew him intimately. The film aims to present a fuller picture of Perry’s life, highlighting both his talent and the hardships he endured.