Peacock has announced the premiere of Matthew Perry: A Hollywood Tragedy, a documentary exploring the life, career, and tragic death of the Friends star. According to media reports, the special is set to air on February 25 and delves into Perry’s rise to fame, his ongoing struggles with addiction, and the harrowing events that followed his passing in October 2023.
The documentary, directed by Robert Palumbo, offers an in-depth look at Perry’s personal and professional journey, including rare footage and interviews with those who knew him best. Key moments of the special focus on the aftermath of Perry’s sudden death, which occurred after a fatal ketamine overdose. The trailer, released alongside the announcement, features the heartbreaking audio from first responders who arrived at Perry’s Los Angeles home to find him unresponsive in his hot tub.
The special highlights the investigation that followed, leading to charges against five individuals, including two doctors, Perry’s former personal assistant, and a woman dubbed the “Ketamine Queen.” According to reports, Perry’s assistant allegedly delivered the fatal dose of ketamine, while three of the individuals charged have already pled guilty. The two remaining defendants are awaiting trial.
Among the interviewees featured in the documentary are Friends co-stars Morgan Fairchild, who portrayed Perry’s on-screen mother, and US Attorney Martin Estrada, media reports suggest. Fairchild reflects on Perry’s lasting impact, saying, “He really touched people’s lives,” while others speak to the darker side of fame, noting how Perry’s vulnerability was exploited by those around him.
The documentary also explores Perry’s battle with addiction and the tragic reality of his death, as many believed he had finally overcome his struggles. The final moments of the trailer are a poignant tribute, with Courteney Cox recalling Perry as “the funniest person in the whole world.”
Matthew Perry: A Hollywood Tragedy is produced by ITN Productions, with Ian Russell, Mike Griffiths, and Robert Palumbo serving as executive producers.