Emmys Tribute To Matthew Perry Leaves Viewers In Tears

Hollywood remembered the TV stars who died in the past year during the Emmy Awards ceremony at Los Angeles’ Peacock Theater on Monday. Among the celebrated late entertainers is Matthew Perry, who died in October last year at 54.

All In The Family’s Rob Reiner and Sally Struthers led the tributary moment from the stage as others joined to pay respects to the dead. “Tonight, as we remember the legends of our industry we lost this past year, we celebrate their lives, their legacy, and the joy they brought to us,” said Struthers.

Matthew Perry tribute at Emmys leaves viewers in tears

Struthers continued her short speech by saying, “So to all of those members of all of our television families who’ve passed on. Those were the days,” after which Charlie Puth and The War and Treaty got on stage to perform “I’ll See You Again.” Stars like Angela Lansbury, Lance Reddick, Barbara Walters, Kirstie Alley, Andre Braugher, Alan Arkin, and Annie Wersching were also acknowledged during the In Memoriam segment.

RELATED: ‘Friends’ Cast Set To Pay Tribute To Matthew Perry During Upcoming Emmy Awards

As the song closed out, the trio transitioned into a heartfelt version of the famous Friends theme song, “I’ll Be There For You,” as a tribute to Perry. This rendition evoked an emotional reaction among fans at home and the audience, who responded with applause. “A tribute to the great Matthew Perry. We will love you always, friend #Emmys,” someone responded on X, formerly Twitter.

Fans react to touching tribute

Social media kept up with the order of events, and as soon as Perry’s tribute came up, fans could not help but join in online. “The ‘Friends’ theme song was performed during the In Memoriam segment of the #Emmys. We couldn’t help but think of our dearest, Matthew Perry,” a post read. “Lost it when Matthew Perry came on and they were singing ‘I’ll Be There For You.’ #Emmys,” another added.

Perry’s death came as a shock to the public when he was confirmed dead in his bathtub. The late icon reportedly suffered “acute effects of ketamine,” which he allegedly administered through an “unknown route.” Other indicated contributors to his death were coronary artery disease and drowning. “Drowning contributes due to the likelihood of submersion into the pool as he lapsed into unconsciousness; coronary artery disease contributes due to exacerbation of ketamine induced myocardial effects on the heart,” senior deputy medical examiner Raffi Djabourian stated.