"Julia Roberts is my girlfriend! Doesn’t matter, you have to drink" – Matthew Perry
As a massive Friends fan, I used to watch the show religiously each week and could see how Matthew Perry change throughout the seasons. I remember being acutely aware at the time, (thanks to the internet), that despite his charming and happy character Chandler Bing, there was a person struggling to cope with addiction. In fact, to this day, it surprises me that most people were unaware.
Matthew Perry’s memoir is a raw and vulnerable recount of his life, far removed from the glamour of Hollywood. Despite him achieving fame and success, Perry’s life was fraught with battles of addiction, mental health issues, and personal turmoil.
“I am making a million dollars a week. I win right?” says Perry, but that evil demon sitting on his shoulder would always be there saying “Would you like to drink? Why yes, I would.”
While there’s been some debate about the accuracy of certain stories within the book, one thing is clear: Perry’s struggles with mental health and addiction were very real. The memoir paints a vivid picture of a man grappling with inner demons while trying to maintain normalcy for the world to see.
Perry spent most of his adult life in and out of rehabs, desperate to overcome his demons, and to be frank, simply stay alive. His attempts to overcome his issues, time and time again highlight his true resilience and determination which we love him for. He did have triumphs, staying clean for periods of time and being a mentor for many in AA and helping others recover.
If you are after a heart-warming story, then look else wear, this book brought a tear to my eye on several occasions. Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing is an emotional rollercoaster that will resonate with readers on many levels. Whether you’re seeking insight into the life of a beloved actor or looking to understand how cunning addiction can be, Matthew Perry’s book is a compelling read that offers both heartache and hope.
RIP Matthew Perry. May your story help others battling mental health and addiction.