On October 27, Netflix will premiere The One About Matthew Perry, a three-part documentary series. It aims to revisit the life of the actor who achieved global fame through the character of Chandler Bing in Friends. However, the production appears to be banking—once again—on a story where the public persona is difficult to separate from his most famous character.
The series will feature never-before-seen footage, testimonials from family members, and statements from those close to Perry. Through these, project director Mary Robertson seeks to round out the portrait of an actor whose career was defined by both television success and struggles with addiction.
The announcement places special emphasis on the intention to show the actor beyond Chandler. This premise makes sense, considering that Friends defined much of his international recognition for a decade.
However, the promise of offering a broader perspective must still contend with an obvious question, given that many of the most significant chapters of his life are already public knowledge.
When does the Matthew Perry documentary premiere?
The One About Matthew Perry arrives on Netflix on October 27, though it has not yet been specified whether the three episodes will provide new information regarding the circumstances surrounding the actor’s death.
Perry passed away at age 54 in October 2023 due to an accidental overdose. A federal investigation implicated five individuals, including two doctors, his personal assistant, and an alleged drug supplier.
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The production will also revisit his film and television career, which included movies such as Fools Rush In, The Whole Nine Yards, and 17 Again, as well as series like Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip, Go On, and The Odd Couple.
Although Netflix presents the documentary as a more comprehensive look at Perry, the true point of interest will be what the three episodes can add to a story the public already largely knows.
