Netflix releases documentary series about Matthew Perry
The actor’s story told through his sister’s memories
Ahead of the third anniversary of Matthew Perry’s death, Netflix has released a documentary miniseries dedicated to the actor.
Titled «The One About Matthew Perry», the series consists of three episodes. It explores the life of the actor who will forever be remembered by audiences as the quick-witted Chandler Bing from the iconic sitcom «Friends», while revealing a far more complicated story beyond the screen. Rather than focusing primarily on the circumstances surrounding his death, the series centres on the memories of people who knew him personally.
One of the documentary’s central figures is Perry’s younger half-sister, Mia Perry Bovee, who works as a psychotherapist. She speaks publicly for the first time about her brother, their family and their childhood.
Two of the actor’s longtime friends, Roger Castillo and David Pressman, also share their memories on camera for the first time. They had known Perry for more than 40 years. Castillo was the one who once drove Perry to an audition that became an important step in his career. The filmmakers also draw on the family’s private archives, including photographs and videos that have never been released publicly.
Another part of the miniseries focuses on Perry’s career and his work on «Friends». Warren Littlefield, former president of NBC Entertainment, and Jeff Strauss, a writer on the show’s first season, recall how Perry auditioned for the series and developed the character of Chandler.
Director Jonathan Lynn, who helmed the comedy «The Whole Nine Yards», and actor Kevin Pollak discuss Perry’s other film projects.
The filmmakers also address the most difficult aspects of his life. Considerable attention is given to Perry’s decades-long struggle with addiction and his efforts to help others facing similar experiences.
However, none of Perry’s «Friends» co-stars are among the participants officially announced by Netflix for the project.
The series is directed by Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Mary Robertson, known for her documentaries exploring the behind-the-scenes world of the entertainment industry.
Photo: Netflix
