Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing
“Hi, my name is Matthew, although you may know me by another name. My friends call me Matty. And I should be dead.”
So begins the riveting story of acclaimed actor Matthew Perry, taking us along on his journey from childhood ambition to fame to addiction and recovery in the aftermath of a life-threatening health scare. Before the frequent hospital visits and stints in rehab, there was five-year-old Matthew, who traveled from Montreal to Los Angeles, shuffling between his separated parents; fourteen-year-old Matthew, who was a nationally ranked tennis star in Canada; twenty-four-year-old Matthew, who nabbed a coveted role as a lead cast member on the talked-about pilot then called Friends Like Us. . . and so much more.
In an extraordinary story that only he could tell—and in the heartfelt, hilarious, and warmly familiar way only he could tell it—Matthew Perry lays bare the fractured family that raised him (and also left him to his own devices), the desire for recognition that drove him to fame, and the void inside him that could not be filled even by his greatest dreams coming true. But he also details the peace he’s found in sobriety and how he feels about the ubiquity of Friends, sharing stories about his castmates and other stars he met along the way. Frank, self-aware, and with his trademark humor, Perry vividly depicts his lifelong battle with addiction and what fueled it despite seemingly having it all.
Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing is an unforgettable memoir that is both intimate and eye-opening—as well as a hand extended to anyone struggling with sobriety. Unflinchingly honest, moving, and uproariously funny, this is the book fans have been waiting for.
©2022 Matthew Perry (P)2022 Macmillan Audio
"Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing: A Memoir" by Matthew Perry
In the highly anticipated memoir "Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing," actor and comedian Matthew Perry takes readers on a candid and deeply personal journey through his life, sharing his struggles with addiction, fame, and relationships.
Perry, best known for his iconic role as Chandler Bing in the beloved sitcom "Friends," opens up about his long-standing battle with addiction, revealing the depths of his struggles and the toll it took on his physical and mental health. With raw honesty, he recounts the cycle of addiction, relapse, and recovery, providing a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of overcoming substance abuse.
Beyond his addiction, Perry delves into his experiences as a child actor, his rise to fame, and the pressures of being part of one of the most popular television shows of all time. He candidly discusses his relationships, both romantic and platonic, and the profound impact they had on his life.
"Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing" is a powerful and moving memoir that offers an intimate look into the life of a man who has faced immense adversity and emerged with resilience and a newfound appreciation for life. Perry's story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the possibility of redemption and healing.
Key Themes Explored in the Memoir:
- Addiction and Recovery: Perry delves into the depths of his struggles with addiction, providing a raw and honest account of the cycle of addiction, relapse, and recovery.
- Fame and Its Challenges: Perry reflects on the pressures and challenges of being part of a hugely popular television show, offering insights into the complexities of fame.
- Relationships and Heartbreak: Perry candidly discusses his romantic relationships and the profound impact they had on his life, exploring themes of love, loss, and heartbreak.
- The Power of Resilience: Despite facing significant obstacles, Perry demonstrates resilience and a determination to overcome adversity, inspiring readers with his ability to pick himself up and keep moving forward.
Why Read "Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing":
- Unfiltered Honesty: Perry's memoir stands out for its raw and unflinching honesty, providing readers with a deeply personal and authentic account of his life.
- Addiction Awareness: Perry's candid exploration of his addiction struggles sheds light on the complexities of addiction and the challenges of recovery, promoting awareness and understanding.
- Celebrity Culture: The memoir offers an insider's perspective on the world of fame and celebrity, providing insights into the pressures and challenges of being in the public eye.
- Inspirational Journey: Perry's story of resilience and redemption is an inspiration to readers who are facing challenges in their own lives, offering hope and motivation.
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