Netflix has unveiled the trailer for 'The One About Matthew Perry,' a compelling three-part documentary set to premiere on October 27. The series offers an intimate look at the actor's life, moving beyond his beloved portrayal of Chandler Bing in the hit sitcom Friends to explore his complex journey with fame, personal struggles, and persistent battle against addiction.
Unpacking a Complex Life
The documentary features candid accounts from Perry’s family, longtime friends, and professional collaborators. His sister, Mia Perry Bowick, reflects on the stark contrast between her brother's public comedic success and his private suffering. “All great stories have comedy and tragedy in them. And that certainly was Matthew's story,” she shares in the trailer. Bowick also reveals the immense effort Perry put into his sobriety, stating, “He spent 7 million dollars trying to get sober. That's how seriously he took his disease.”
Viewers will gain insights into Perry's early career, including his audition for Friends and the development of the Chandler Bing character, with contributions from former NBC president Warren Littlefield and Season 1 writer Jeff Strauss. Beyond his public persona, the series also includes personal anecdotes from close friends David Pressman and Roger Castillo, who had known Perry for decades and even helped him get to his Friends audition. Several of his former girlfriends also share their perspectives on his life away from the spotlight.
Adding a deeply personal touch, the documentary incorporates previously unseen photographs and videos from the Perry family’s private archives, offering a rare glimpse into his formative years and personal moments.
The Battle with Addiction
A significant portion of 'The One About Matthew Perry' addresses the actor's long and arduous struggle with substance use. The documentary carefully intertwines his periods of immense fame and wealth with his repeated attempts at recovery, highlighting the internal conflict between his public image and his private fight for sobriety. Matthew Perry tragically passed away on October 28, 2023, at the age of 54.
The Creative Team
Emmy-winning filmmaker Mary Robertson directs 'The One About Matthew Perry.' She also serves as an executive producer alongside Lisa Kalikow, Eli Holzman, and Aaron Saidman. Lora Moftah is the co-executive producer, with Jessica Call as the producer. The series is a production of Maxine Productions, a Sony Pictures Television company.
The three-part documentary will be available for streaming on Netflix starting October 27.