What to Know About Matthew Perry’s Parents, Including Dad John, Mom Suzanne and Stepdad Keith Morrison

**Matthew Perry’s Legacy: A Portrait of Grief and Understanding from His Family**

Matthew Perry, renowned for his role as Chandler Bing on the iconic television series “Friends,” was born on 19 August 1969 to John Bennett Perry and Suzanne Morrison. His family structure was complex, further enriched by the presence of his stepfather, Keith Morrison, a well-known journalist associated with the programme “Dateline.” Perry, who tragically passed away in 2023, left behind a legacy that continues to impact those who loved him, particularly his parents as they navigate life without their son.

In a poignant Instagram post commemorating what would have been Matthew’s 57th birthday in August 2026, Suzanne openly expressed her heartache, stating, “I miss him terribly. All the time. Every day.” The immense gap left by Matthew’s untimely death has been exacerbated for his family, prompting deep reflections on grief and the justice they seek related to the circumstances surrounding his passing.

Matthew’s life was marked by significant milestones, including the early separation of his parents shortly after his birth. John and Suzanne’s marriage lasted less than two years, leading to a divorce when Matthew was just one year old. Following their split, Suzanne relocated with Matthew from Williamstown, Massachusetts, to her hometown of Ottawa. During this time, Matthew experienced a childhood marked by transitions, often travelling between his mother and father, who later moved to California.

Recalling this challenging time, Matthew described a vivid memory of flying alone at just five years old to reunite with his father in Los Angeles. “I was terrified… but when I saw the lights of the city, I knew we were landing,” he shared. This relationship with his father grew stronger when, at the age of 15, he moved in with John in California.

John Bennett Perry, for his part, had already made a name for himself in the entertainment industry long before Matthew rose to fame. With a career spanning acting and music, John was known for his appearances in commercials, TV series, and films. Matthew had a complicated admiration for his father’s career, admitting, “I didn’t get much of a chance to see him as a kid.” He reflected on the time he watched his father’s performances and mused about the inevitability of following in those footsteps.

In contrast, Suzanne’s career trajectory was rooted in journalism, where she served as a press secretary for then-Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau. This role had a significant impact on Matthew’s upbringing—recollections of being a “latchkey kid” during his mother’s demanding career contributed to a tumultuous youth during which he battled personal issues and played out jealousy towards fellow classmates, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s son.

As Matthew ventured deeper into his acting career, he faced significant struggles with addiction. On 23 February 2001, he reached out to his parents in a moment of crisis, seeking help to address his dependency on pain medication. This pivotal phone call led to intervention and support from his family, ultimately guiding him into rehabilitation.

Throughout his career, Matthew had the chance to collaborate on-screen with his father, leading to memorable moments that bridged their familial bond with their professional aspirations. Together, they appeared in various productions, including an episode of “Scrubs” in 2004, and even co-produced a play and a film together.

Matthew’s family has now expanded through John and Suzanne’s later marriages, with both parents welcoming additional children. Keith Morrison, who married Suzanne in 1981, and John Perry, who wed in the same year, have both spoken fondly of Matthew, with Keith reflecting on their relationship as one marked by mutual respect and understanding. He noted their closeness and the profound grief shared, particularly by Suzanne, in the years following Matthew’s death.

In December 2025, as a result of the investigation into Matthew’s overdose and the individuals involved, his parents submitted victim impact letters that were emotionally charged. They held Dr. Salvador Plasencia, the physician involved in administering drugs to Matthew, accountable for his role in the circumstances surrounding his death. Their words captured the essence of their pain, stating, “Those greedy jackals come out of the dark, and all [parenting] is for naught.”

The aftermath of Matthew Perry’s life and death has prompted his family members to become advocates for addiction awareness. In 2024, following his death, Keith and his daughter Caitlin established the Matthew Perry Foundation of Canada to support those struggling with similar issues. Through their efforts, they aim to honour his memory while also providing assistance and hope for others facing addiction.

As his parents continue to process their profound loss, they remain advocates for justice and change, contributing to ongoing conversations surrounding addiction and the importance of support systems for those in need. Matthew Perry may no longer be physically present, but his legacy continues to resonate profoundly in the hearts of those who loved him and in the ongoing fight against the devastating impact of addiction.