Matthew Perry’s Stepfather Discusses His Struggle with Addiction
Published: March 13, 2024
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Details
Matthew Perry’s stepfather recently opened up about the late actor’s battle with addiction in a heartfelt interview. Perry, known for his role in the popular TV show Friends, had struggled with alcohol and substance misuse for years before his unfortunate passing in October at the age of 54.
Keith Morrison, Perry’s stepfather, shared that Perry felt like he was making progress in overcoming his addiction. However, Morrison acknowledged that addiction is a lifelong struggle, and Perry was aware of the ongoing challenges he faced.
An autopsy report revealed that Perry had been reportedly clean for 19 months prior to his death. However, he was undergoing a ketamine infusion therapy to manage his depression and anxiety. The report listed the effects of ketamine and buprenorphine, along with coronary artery disease and drowning, as the causes of his passing.
Morrison, speaking about Perry’s final days, stated that his stepson was in a good place emotionally and expressed happiness, which was a comforting realization for him. However, Morrison couldn’t help but feel the unfairness of Perry’s life ending prematurely, as he was denied the opportunity to experience his third act fully.
Losing a Loved One
Morrison continues to grapple with the profound grief of losing Perry. In a recent interview, he confessed that the pain of the loss persists and is a constant presence in his life. He highlighted the challenging nature of dealing with grief, as new aspects of the heartache surface unexpectedly.
A Stepfather’s Perspective
In a poignant reflection, Morrison fondly recalled Perry’s growth and the impact his stepson had on those around him. Perry’s charismatic and fiery personality made him the center of attention, even in the most mundane moments. Morrison acknowledged the differences between their personalities, but emphasized their strong bond and how he supported Perry without trying to replace his biological father.
The Battle with Addiction
Morrison shed light on the immense challenges Perry faced in battling addiction, particularly while being in the public eye. Perry was known for seeking help when he needed it and being a vocal advocate for substance use treatment. Even so, addiction remained an overwhelming and insidious force in his life. Morrison expressed both admiration for Perry’s resiliency and the immense burden he shouldered.
Continuing the Legacy
Following Perry’s death, his mother and stepfather established the Matthew Perry Foundation to assist those struggling with addiction. They seek to honor and carry on Perry’s passionate commitment to supporting individuals on their journey to recovery.
Conclusion
Matthew Perry’s stepfather, Keith Morrison, bravely shared his insights into Perry’s strenuous battle with addiction and the ongoing impact of his loss. Morrison’s interview serves as a testament to Perry’s resilience and the profound impact he had on his loved ones’ lives. As the world mourned the loss of Perry, his stepfather’s heartfelt words provide solace and inspiration to continue fighting against the devastating effects of addiction.
