Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the life and struggles of Matthew Perry, known for his role as Chandler in "Friends," highlighting his battle with addiction and the impact of prescription painkillers on his life and career [1][45]. Group 1: Background and Early Life - "Friends" served as a significant part of the author's university experience, with the show being a tool for learning English [2][3]. - The emotional connection to the characters in "Friends" is profound, as they represent a nostalgic part of the author's youth [5][6]. Group 2: Matthew Perry's Struggles - Perry's addiction issues became apparent during the filming of "Friends," with noticeable fluctuations in his weight attributed to substance abuse [7][8]. - An injury from a skiing accident in 1997 led to the prescription of strong painkillers, which initiated his addiction cycle [9][13]. - Perry's use of painkillers escalated to an alarming level, consuming 55 Vicodin pills daily, which severely affected his health and memory [15][19]. Group 3: Impact on Career and Relationships - The "Friends" cast showed remarkable support for Perry during his struggles, adjusting filming schedules to accommodate his condition [20][21]. - Despite the support, Perry's addiction led to a decline in his career, with attempts to break free from the cycle of addiction proving difficult [38][39]. Group 4: Broader Implications of Addiction - The article discusses the broader issue of prescription painkiller abuse in the U.S., linking it to the opioid crisis and the role of pharmaceutical companies in promoting these drugs [23][46]. - Perry's wealth and fame did not shield him from addiction; instead, they may have exacerbated his struggles due to the availability of substances [47][50]. Group 5: Conclusion and Legacy - Perry's life is portrayed as a tragic narrative of addiction, with his death attributed to a long battle with substance abuse and mental health issues [40][54]. - The article reflects on the societal implications of addiction and the personal toll it takes, suggesting that Perry's struggles were emblematic of a larger crisis [54][55].