Matthew Perry
Chantel Brink
Chantel Brink
July 4, 2024 ·  4 min read

This Was Matthew Perry’s Last Time Seen In Public, Plus The Actor’s Eerie Final Post

Matthew Perry appeared to be savoring a day out with a friend just a week before his passing, exiting a West L.A. eatery in what turned out to be his final public appearance. On October 21, 2023, the renowned “Friends” actor was seen leaving the Apple Pan, a popular spot in West L.A. known for its burgers, sandwiches, and pies.

Accompanied by a male friend carrying takeout, Perry sported a small goatee. A departure from his familiar clean-cut appearance recognized by millions of “Friends” fans. Nevertheless, he seemed to be in good spirits. Before this, he had been spotted on October 3 leaving a workout in Los Angeles.

Perry’s assistant discovered him unresponsive the morning of October 28th at his residence, shortly after a 2-hour pickleball match. Reports indicate he was found in a hot tub with no drugs present at the scene. It’s now a haunting image, but just six days prior, in what became his final Instagram post, Matthew Perry shared a nighttime photo from the hot tub, captioned with his trademark humor: “Oh, so warm water swirling around makes you feel good? I’m Mattman.” His beloved sense of humor, cherished by fans, remained intact for the 54-year-old actor.

The image captured Matthew Perry seated near the jacuzzi’s edge, donning a set of headphones

Appearing at ease, the actor relaxed in the water, extending his arms along the tub’s rim. Purple-hued lights illuminated the water, casting a reflective glow on Matthew Perry as he gazed out at the moonlit skyline. This picture marked the last shared by the adored actor before his untimely passing at 54 years old on Saturday.

Prior to his passing, while in the jacuzzi at his newly acquired residence just three weeks prior, the wealthy individual had surrounded himself with a supportive circle of friends who stood by him faithfully. Among his closest companions was his longtime assistant Briana Brancato. Who, with his approval, had recently transitioned to a role as a personal trainer.

Matthew Perry in his hot tub just days before disaster struck
Source: Instagram

He also had a sober coach and confidante, Erin, who resided with him at his Malibu home during pandemic-related lockdowns and accompanied him through periods of rehabilitation. Whom Matthew Perry had credited with saving his life when his colon ruptured. Additionally, his “Friends” co-stars regularly maintained contact to check in on him.

According to Jon Paul Crimi, a longtime friend and former trainer within his social circle, who spoke to The Post on Monday, “We all face challenges at times, even those who aren’t struggling with addiction, but Matthew appeared to be doing well.”

A sad discovery for FRIENDS fans worldwide

According to law enforcement sources cited by the outlet, no drugs were discovered at the scene. Leading them to believe there was no foul play involved. Allegedly, Matthew Perry had sent his assistant on an errand. About two hours later, upon the assistant’s return, they found the actor unresponsive and immediately placed a 911 call.

Reports indicated that emergency responders swiftly arrived at his Los Angeles residence following a call regarding a suspected cardiac arrest. Upon their arrival, authorities purportedly discovered the actor in the jacuzzi.

Perry’s personal trainer was devastated

Brancato, aged 34, offered a poignant tribute to Perry, famed for his portrayal of the witty Chandler Bing in the NBC smash hit. Expressing gratitude to the star for entrusting her to “take care of him” over the span of 7 years.

Matthew Perry had disclosed in his autobiography that, at the age of 49, his colon had ruptured due to opioid abuse. Placing him in a coma for two weeks and requiring a five-month recovery in the hospital. He credited Brancato in the book with being instrumental in saving his life. Recently, supported by Perry, she transitioned from her role as his assistant to pursue work as a personal trainer. According to sources, it was her successor as personal assistant who discovered Perry’s body.

On Instagram Monday, Brancato shared photos of their shared experiences, including moments of laughter and lying together on a bed, reflecting on their time. She wrote, “From witnessing him in his genius to sharing in his worldly adventures living around the world, he took me on a remarkable journey.”

Brian Brancato Instagram post about Matthew Perry
Image Credit: brianbrancato Instagram

“My heart is heavy, but celebrating my memories is the most profound way to honor his legacy,” she added, “I hope that up there, in the great beyond, Mattman is sending us signs. We truly need them. You’ll forever be in my heart. I love you, Matty.” Matthew Perry’s hairstylist Sierra Kener wrote: “He loved you and was so grateful for you. your friendship was unmatched.”

Sources

  1. “MATTHEW PERRYCASUAL MEAL WITH A FRIEND 1 WEEK AGO… Plus, Eerie Final IG Post” TMZ. October 28, 2023
  2. “Matthew Perry shared eerie last Instagram photo just 5 days before his death” Page Six. Nicki Cox. October 28, 2023
  3. “Matthew Perry’s final friends mourn star — including assistant who saved his life once before” NY Post.