LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Conservative activist Matt Wallace is facing intense criticism and backlash on social media after a controversial post regarding the tragic death of beloved 'Friends' star Matthew Perry, who passed away on Saturday, October 28.
Perry, 54, was found dead at his Pacific Palisades home in what appears to be an accidental drowning, according to a representative for the actor and a law enforcement source.
The events unfolded when a 911 call was made at 4:07 p.m. local time, reporting a water emergency. First responders arrived at the scene, and although no one was transported to the hospital, Los Angeles police officers from the West L.A. Division were present.
Additionally, the LAPD's Robbery-Homicide Division, known for investigating high-profile crimes and cases involving celebrities, also responded, although initial reports emphasize that there are no indications of foul play.
Unfounded conspiracy theory sparks controversy
However, it was on social media where controversy arose when conservative activist Matt Wallace took to his platform to post a provocative and unfounded conspiracy theory about Perry's death. Wallace claimed that there were rumors circulating that Perry was about to expose a conspiracy theory he referred to as "pedowood" before his mysterious demise.
The post read, "POLICE SAY NO FOUL PLAY IS SUSPECTED BUT RUMORS ARE QUICKLY CIRCULATING THAT HE WAS KILLED BECAUSE HE WAS ABOUT TO REVEAL THE TRUTH ABOUT PEDOWOOD."
This unfounded allegation swiftly drew the ire of many on social media. Users from various backgrounds expressed their disappointment and urged restraint.
One user responded, "I'm deeply saddened to hear about Matthew Perry's passing, but I would like to stress the importance of not spreading or entertaining unfounded rumors. Let's remember him for the laughter and joy he brought into our lives through his work."
Another added, "Dude... relax. No such thing was about to happen. Give it 48 hours before you start the shenanigans," another added.
Someone else pleaded, "Maybe hold off for a few with the theories, OK? Wow."
Others called for respect and discretion, stating, "Please stop these conspiracies. A person has died. Until you hear about what caused it, please have some respect."
Another commented, "Tragic that within hours of the man dying, so many on social media want to soil his memory with nonsense rumors."
Matthew Perry's legacy
Matthew Perry, widely recognized for his role as Chandler Bing on the iconic TV series 'Friends,' was a pivotal figure in the world of entertainment. The show ran for 10 seasons, from 1994 to 2004, and enjoyed tremendous popularity during its run, alongside 'Seinfeld.'
Perry's career extended beyond 'Friends' to include appearances in several other successful productions, such as 'Boys Will Be Boys,' 'Growing Pains,' 'Beverly Hills, 90210,' 'The West Wing,' and 'Scrubs.'
Born in Ottawa, Canada, Perry initially pursued a career in tennis and achieved prominence in Canadian juniors before transitioning to acting when he moved to Los Angeles at the age of 15. He joined the 'Friends' cast at 24, becoming an integral part of the show's success.
About a year ago, Perry embarked on a press tour to promote his memoir, 'Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing: A Memoir,' in which he candidly discussed his battles with addiction. The book shed light on a near-death experience in 2019 when his colon burst due to opioid use, leading to significant rehabilitation efforts that reportedly cost him as much as $7 million.
While Matthew Perry's life after 'Friends' included multiple roles that garnered respect and acclaim, it was often overshadowed by headlines about his personal struggles, per NBC News.
