Friends of actor Matthew Perry, known for his iconic role as Chandler Bing in the hit sitcom "Friends," have announced the formation of a foundation in his name. The foundation aims to provide support to individuals struggling with drug and alcohol addiction, following Perry's tragic death at the age of 54.

Throughout his life, Perry had been open about his own battles with addiction, regularly discussing his struggles with drug and alcohol abuse. He estimated that he had spent a staggering $9 million on rehab costs. In light of his lasting commitment to helping others, the friends of Perry have decided to establish The Matthew Perry Foundation.

The foundation's statement emphasized that it would continue Perry's dedication to assisting individuals grappling with addiction. It would honor his legacy by drawing on his personal experiences and driven by his passion to make a difference in as many lives as possible.

Perry's death was a shock to his friends and fans around the world. He was found dead at his residence in Los Angeles, with officials suspecting drowning as the cause of death. Investigations are still ongoing, but there is no indication of foul play.

The newly formed foundation shared a quote from Perry on their website, illustrating his desire to be remembered for helping those battling addiction. Perry expressed that he wished helping others to be mentioned first when he passed away. He firmly believed that addiction was a formidable opponent but emphasized the importance of coming together to overcome it.

Despite his struggles, Perry had recently shared that he was clean and sober, having overcome his addiction in 2021. He had been actively pursuing a healthier lifestyle, including taking up pickleball, a sport similar to tennis and table tennis.

Perry's path to recovery was not an easy one. From the time he first rose to fame in "Friends," his alcohol addiction became apparent. He admitted to taking as many as 55 Vicodin pills a day, which took a toll on his physical health. By the end of the show's tenth season, Perry found himself in a cycle of trouble, unable to remember filming three seasons due to his addiction struggles.

In his memoir titled "Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing," Perry shared his battles with addiction, offering a candid account of his experiences. He hoped that his story would serve as a lifeline for others struggling with similar issues.

The formation of The Matthew Perry Foundation is a testament to the impact Perry made on those around him. Friends, family, and fans alike mourn his passing while also celebrating his dedication to helping others. To support the foundation's work, interested individuals can visit matthewperryfoundation.org and contribute to the cause.

Matthew Perry's legacy will endure through the foundation, ensuring that his commitment to helping those battling addiction lives on. As the foundation takes shape, it is poised to provide much-needed support and resources to individuals in need – a fitting tribute to a beloved actor and advocate for recovery.