Born August 19, 1969, Matthew Perry—known for his legendary performance as Chandler Bing on Friends—was born to John Bennett Perry and Suzanne Morrison. Soon after his birth, his parents divorced, preparing the ground for a boyhood separated between two homes.
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Matthew Langford Perry |
| Date of Birth | August 19, 1969 |
| Mother | Suzanne Morrison |
| Father | John Bennett Perry |
| Stepfather | Keith Morrison |
| Siblings | Mia Perry, Emily, Willy, Caitlin, Madeline Morrison |
John Bennett Perry: Actor Father of Matthew
Before Matthew started to shine, John Bennett Perry was already well-known in television and ads. He featured in Old Spice commercials and Little House on the Prairie. On Scrubs, John and Matthew even made appearances together, adding a real-life father-son link to the screen.
Journalist and political aide Suzanne Morrison
Suzanne Morrison became well-known as an adviser to Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau and a journalist. She reared Matthew in Canada, giving him a childhood near politics and media, therefore influencing his early years with special possibilities and experiences.
Steady Stepfather and Journalist Keith Morrison
Suzanne wed seasoned Dateline correspondent Keith Morrison in 1981. Keith started to show Matthew a consistent presence, providing direction and encouragement. Particularly throughout Matthew’s challenges, his consistent presence helped to build a balanced family dynamic.
Matthew’s Special Coming From Two Homes
Matthew grew up often visiting his father‘s house in Los Angeles from his mother’s in Ottawa. Flying alone to meet his father, he was five years old and negotiated a special childhood split between two countries. That was a way of life requiring maturity.
Early Influence of His Father on His Professional Path
Seeing his son’s talent made John pleased as well as worried. Seeing a young Matthew at a school performance, he experienced conflicting feelings since he thought Matthew would continue in his demanding manner. In the end, he backed Matthew’s decision to get into acting.
Support from Parents Through Matthew’s Addiction Trials
Matthew’s path toward recovery occurred under public view, underscoring the value of family. He asked his parents for help in 2001. They supported him through a trying time and showed their continuous love and concern while they brought him to rehab.
Connection Through Crisis
John and Suzanne, Matthew’s parents, hurried to his side when he was in hospital in 2018. He remembered their calmness at his hospital bed. The encounter brought back his family’s encouragement and the fortitude they provided during trying circumstances.
John and Matthew’s Cooperation
On-screen several occasions, including in Fools Rush In and Scrubs, John and Matthew appeared together. John’s guest appearance on Friends, when he portrayed Rachel’s boyfriend’s father, gave the family dynamic comedy, making for an unforgettable cameo for viewers.
Suzanne’s Political Resume and Impact on Matthew
Working with Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, Suzanne entered political circles. Matthew went to school with Justin, the son of Pierre, now Prime Minister of Canada. Years later, Matthew sarcastically remembered a playground fight he had with Justin.
Close relationship with Stepfather Keith Morrison
Keith Morrison developed a close relationship with Matthew because of his knowledge and wit. Given Matthew’s own sense of humor, he pointed out how suitable he was for the part of Chandler Bing. Having Keith around gave their family security and cohesiveness.
Family Fortitude and Loss
Matthew’s family suffered both personally and publically. His parents showed great grief following his death in 2023. Establishing the Matthew Perry Foundation of Canada with an eye on helping others battling addiction, they paid respect to his memory.
FAQs
Who are Matthew Perry’s parents?
His parents are John Bennett Perry and Suzanne Morrison.
What is John Bennett Perry’s profession?
John is an actor known for various TV roles and commercials.
Who is Matthew Perry’s stepfather?
His stepfather is Keith Morrison, a Dateline correspondent.
Did Matthew Perry’s parents stay together?
No, they separated when he was a baby.
Did Matthew Perry have siblings?
Yes, he has several siblings from his parents’ later marriages.
