Lauren Graham reflects on friendship with Matthew Perry, shares touching memories

Lauren Graham opens up about her special connection with her long-time friend, the late Matthew Perry.

Actress and author Lauren Graham has opened up about her special bond with the late Matthew Perry. Though rumored to have dated, the two were primarily longtime friends. She fondly recalled his final gift to her: "a pickleball set" for her 56th birthday with a playful card saying, "Be older."

Graham clarified their relationship: "While he was not technically ever a boyfriend, he was an almost in my life," and "a friend and a constant." Their connection had its rhythms, as she explained, "We would stretch for a year, then he would come back in my life, and he had just come back in my life last year". His passing remains a "terrible loss" that's "still really hard to believe".

Graham found some comfort in witnessing his personal growth before his death: "he was so thrilled with how his book was received — and not just because it was a huge success, but because his life’s work kind of became, 'How can I give back? How can I talk about the struggles I had and hopefully help someone else?'"

The two shared a strong bond, with Perry once calling Lauren "one of my favorite people" and adding, "We have great chemistry when working together and it’s fun to work with a close friend."

Matthew Perry was found dead in a hot tub at his Los Angeles home on October 28, 2023. The 54-year-old’s death was caused by drowning and ketamine, the LA County coroner said.

His loss resonated deeply, with stars like Zac Efron paying tribute to his kindness and the impact he had on their careers.