Matthew Langford Perry was born on August 19, 1969, in Williamstown, Massachusetts. He is the son of Suzanne Marie Morrison, a Canadian journalist and former press secretary to Canadian Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, and John Bennett Perry, an American actor and former model. His parents divorced before he turned one, and he was raised by his mother in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Perry attended elementary school in Ottawa and later moved to Los Angeles to live with his father.
Growing up, Perry showed a keen interest in acting and tennis. He was a top-ranked junior tennis player in Canada, but his passion for acting ultimately won out. He attended The Buckley School in Sherman Oaks, California, where he participated in several stage productions.
Career
Matthew Perry’s acting career began in the late 1980s with guest roles on various television shows. His first significant role was on the short-lived TV series “Second Chance,” which was later rebranded as “Boys Will Be Boys.” Despite the show’s cancellation, Perry’s performance caught the attention of casting directors, leading to more guest appearances on popular TV shows like “Growing Pains” and “Beverly Hills, 90210.”
Perry’s big break came in 1994 when he was cast as Chandler Bing on “Friends.” The show, which ran for ten seasons, became a cultural phenomenon and solidified Perry’s place in television history. His portrayal of the sarcastic yet lovable Chandler earned him critical acclaim and a massive fan following. During his time on “Friends,” Perry also appeared in several films, including “Fools Rush In,” “The Whole Nine Yards,” and “17 Again.”
After “Friends” ended in 2004, Perry continued to work in television and film. He starred in the short-lived TV series “Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip” and “Mr. Sunshine,” and had a recurring role on “The Good Wife.” Perry also explored his talents behind the camera, co-writing and producing the TV series “Go On” and “The Odd Couple.”
Relationships
Matthew Perry’s personal life has been a topic of interest for many fans. He has had several high-profile relationships over the years. In the 1990s, Perry dated actress Yasmine Bleeth and later Julia Roberts. He was also romantically linked to Lizzy Caplan from 2006 to 2012.
Despite his charming on-screen persona, Perry has faced significant challenges in his personal life, particularly with substance abuse. He has been open about his struggles with addiction to alcohol and prescription medications, which began during his time on “Friends.” Perry has been in and out of rehab several times and has used his experiences to advocate for addiction recovery, opening a sober living facility called the Perry House in 2013.
Real Estate
Matthew Perry has made significant investments in real estate over the years. His property portfolio includes luxurious homes in some of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Los Angeles. One of his most notable purchases was a stunning penthouse in Century City, which he listed for $35 million in 2020. The penthouse, located in the prestigious Century building, features breathtaking views of the city, top-of-the-line amenities, and modern design.
In addition to his Century City penthouse, Perry has owned several other properties, including a Malibu beach house and a mansion in the Hollywood Hills. His real estate investments reflect his taste for luxury and his savvy as an investor.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Matthew Perry’s estimated net worth is around $120 million. A significant portion of his wealth comes from his time on “Friends,” where he earned $1 million per episode in the later seasons. The show’s continued popularity through syndication and streaming deals has provided Perry with a steady stream of income over the years.
In addition to his earnings from “Friends,” Perry’s film roles, television projects, and real estate investments have contributed to his substantial net worth. Despite facing personal challenges, Perry has managed to maintain and grow his financial portfolio through strategic investments and continued work in the entertainment industry.
Age and Other Notable Aspects
Matthew Perry is currently 54 years old. Beyond his professional achievements and personal challenges, Perry is known for his philanthropic efforts. He has been an advocate for addiction recovery and mental health awareness, using his platform to help others struggling with similar issues.
In 2021, Perry released a memoir titled “Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing,” where he candidly discussed his life, career, and battles with addiction. The book received positive reviews for its honesty and has further endeared him to fans who admire his resilience and willingness to share his story.
Conclusion
Matthew Perry’s journey from a young tennis player in Canada to one of television’s most beloved actors is a testament to his talent and perseverance. Despite facing numerous challenges, Perry has managed to build a successful career and amass significant wealth. His contributions to television, his advocacy work, and his investments in real estate showcase a multifaceted individual who continues to captivate audiences worldwide. As he moves forward, fans and admirers alike look forward to seeing what the next chapter holds for this remarkable actor.
