Netflix documentary reveals Matthew Perry's private struggles

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Started 29D · Updated 28D

Netflix has released the first trailer for The One About Matthew Perry, a three-part documentary series that will premiere on October 27, 2026, one day before the third anniversary of the actor's death. The series, narrated by his sister Mia Perry Bowick, aims to present a complete portrait of the Friends star, exploring both his meteoric rise to fame and his long, private battle with addiction.

What the documentary covers

The series combines never-before-seen family photos and videos with intimate interviews. Mia Perry Bowick, a psychotherapist, stated she needed time before she felt ready to speak publicly, wanting viewers to see her brother as a "whole person" beyond Chandler Bing or his addiction. The trailer shows Perry reflecting on fame, saying in an old interview: "I was extremely happy when I became famous... this didn't fix what I had inside."

Key participants and production

Confirmed interviewees include:

Mia Perry Bowick, the actor's sister
David Pressman and Roger Castillo, close friends
Warren Littlefield, former NBC president, discussing the Friends casting process
Jeff Strauss, a writer from the first season, on creating Chandler Bing

The documentary is directed by Mary Robertson, known for Framing Britney Spears. It is unclear if any of Perry's Friends co-stars will appear, though Jennifer Aniston has previously spoken emotionally about him.

A story of comedy and tragedy

Mia Perry Bowick summarized her brother's life: "All great stories have comedy and tragedy, and that was undoubtedly Matthew's story." The series will detail his decades-long struggle with addiction, including the revelation that he spent over $7 million on attempts to get sober. Perry died in 2023 at age 54 from the effects of a ketamine overdose.

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