LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Academy Award-winning actress Mira Sorvino’s heartfelt tribute to the late ‘Friends’ star Matthew Perry teared up the internet as the distraught fandom is trying to navigate the shocking news of the actor’s death.
In a tragic turn of events, Perry, 54, died by drowning in his Los Angeles home’s jacuzzi on Saturday, October 28.
Since the news of the 'Fools Rush In' actor's untimely death began circulating widely, devastated fans have been sharing heartfelt tributes to the actor, best known for his iconic portrayal of Chandler Bing in the NBC sitcom 'Friends.'
Even celebrities have joined the fans in mourning Perry's death with the ‘Dancing With the Stars’ alum Sorvino posting Perry’s own words to remember the actor.
Perry, who aimed to be recognized beyond his portrayal of Chandler Bing, had previously voiced his wish to be acknowledged primarily for his endeavors in supporting individuals grappling with alcoholism.
Mira Sorvino pens heartfelt tribute to Matthew Perry
Sorvino took to the X platform to share a considerable portion of Perry’s own words on how he wanted his legacy to continue after his death.
Sorvino captioned her post by writing, “I want to leave Matthew Perry’s own words here as the way we remember him. There will never be another like him- he lit up so many hearts in so many ways. Godspeed to Paradise!”
In the portion, Perry talked in detail about his struggle with addiction and alcoholism, and his incessant desire to make another struggling addict's life better.
He confessed, "I've had a lot of ups and downs in my life," before adding, “I’m still working through it personally, but the best thing about me is that if an alcoholic or drug addict comes up to me and says, 'Will you help me?' I will always say, 'Yes, I know how to do that. I will do that for you, even if I can't always do it for myself!'"
He also constructed Perry House in Malibu, a sober living facility for men who dealt with similar addictions. Perry also said, “When I die, I know people will talk about Friends, Friends, Friends.”
He continued, “And I’m glad of that, happy I’ve done some solid work as an actor, as well as given people multiple chances to make fun of my struggles on the world wide web…”
Even though he was aware that his reputation as a funnyman would be his primary legacy, he possessed a relentless aspiration to be commemorated for a deeper and broader impact.
He wrote in a heartfelt plea, "When I die, as far as my so-called accomplishments go, it would be nice if Friends were listed far behind the things I did to try to help other people.”
He reinforced, “I know it won't happen, but it would be nice."
Internet says 'we should honor' Matthew Perry's wishes after Mira Sorvino’s tribute
Following Sorvino's heartfelt tribute using Perry's words, the internet mourned a little more, with fans railing in for following the '17 Again' actor's wish.
One of the fans said, "I think we should honor Matthews wishes."
Another fan shared, "Matthew Perry’s experience and openness about his drug addiction really helped me with my sobriety. 6 years sober here. RIP Matthew Perry. This one hits hard."
Someone else said, "I hope that if that is your wish then the Matthew Perry house grows and expands a lot. Let everyone know where we can send money. Everyone I know and love is a drug addict and or alcoholic. Rest in peace."
"Friends was his work. But what we really leave behind is the love we've given. That endures forever," commented another fan about Perry's legacy.
Another fan observed, "He was a beautiful, troubled soul who was unable to give himself the joy that he brought to so many others. He will be truly missed."
Someone else said, "Powerful. We can all do more to help those afflicted with addiction and personal demons that follow us around from childhood."
"Matthew Perry, your humor healed us, your struggle taught us, and your legacy inspires us. A true champion for addiction recovery. Your story lives on," remarked another fan.
"Oh so very kind of you to repost his words!! It is a great reminder of who he was and surely how he will be remembered!! He made us all laugh he was truly a Friend to most of us," said someone else.
