On October 28, 2023, renowned actor Matthew Perry, 54, was discovered dead in his hot tub at his Pacific Palisades residence in Los Angeles, California.
Reports indicate that Perry’s assistant found him submerged in the water upon returning from an errand. Despite immediate efforts to perform CPR, Perry remained non-responsive.
Paramedics arrived at the home but were unable to resuscitate him, pronouncing him dead at the scene. Despite a completed autopsy by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner, the cause of death won’t be revealed until results from toxicology reports are received.
The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) was quick to dispel rumors of foul play, indicating that it is not a suspected factor in Perry’s death. Although no illicit substances were found on the property, investigators did recover prescription medications. This aspect will be included as part of the ongoing investigation.
Perry, renowned for his role as Chandler Bing on the epic television series “Friends,” had been open about his struggles with substance abuse, specifically opioids and alcohol. His battles with addiction had spanned many years, with Perry himself having disclosed substantial expenditures related to his recovery.
Five days before his apparent drowning, Perry took to Instagram to share a photograph of himself relaxing in a pool of water, headphones adorning his head.
Perry’s unexpected death has ignited discussions about the potential dangers of hot tubs. It’s widely acknowledged that sitting in hot water, especially at temperatures exceeding 104°F, can induce drowsiness. This effect can be intensified when alcohol or particular medications are consumed. Moreover, there are medical conditions such as “hot tub syncope,” where individuals may faint due to altered blood flow when exiting hot water. This condition can be particularly perilous if the individual is alone or incapacitated.
While the cause of Perry’s death is still undetermined, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks tied to hot tub usage.
Perry’s legacy as a beloved actor is indisputable. His impact on pop culture, through roles in various shows and films, ensures he’ll be remembered for years to come.