The world was left in shock with the tragic passing of Matthew Perry, best known for his iconic role as Chandler Bing in the globally celebrated sitcom, Friends.

As fans, co-stars, and loved ones come to terms with his unexpected death, initial findings from the actor’s autopsy offer some clarity on his last moments.

According to sources, the preliminary toxicology tests did not detect the presence of either meth or fentanyl in Perry’s system, per TMZ. This debunks speculations of a potential overdose from these substances.

However, the comprehensive toxicology report is still underway, and its findings, which will provide insights into whether Perry had a lethal level of prescription drugs in his bloodstream, are awaited.

Matthew Perry sadly passed away aged 54. Credit: Kevin Winter/Getty

This full report, pivotal in affirming the cause of Perry’s death, might take an estimated four to six months for completion.

The circumstances surrounding Perry’s death are heartbreaking. The esteemed actor was found dead, the result of an apparent drowning, in a hot tub. And while the preliminary toxicology findings dismiss the presence of certain drugs, law enforcement has allegedly confirmed that an assortment of prescription medications, including antidepressants, anti-anxiety drugs, and a COPD-related drug, were discovered at his residence, reports TMZ.

In the wake of these findings, the Los Angeles County Coroner conducted a conclusive autopsy on October 29. However, it’s worth noting that the definitive results might remain elusive for some time.

Perry’s battle with substance addiction is no secret to the world. In his deeply personal memoir released just last year, he gave readers a harrowing account of his experiences. His Vicodin addiction reportedly stemmed from a 1997 jet skiing accident, during which he became dependent on the opioid analgesic.

Matthew Perry sadly passed away aged 54. Credit: David M. Benett/Getty

Perry’s admission that he consumed up to 55 Vicodin pills daily, before his first rehab intervention, paints a haunting image of the depths of his struggle. As reported by Today, his journey through addiction involved over a dozen rehab visits, 14 surgeries, and grim phases where he faced death. He recounted, “The doctors told my family that I had a two percent chance to live. That’s the time I really came close to my life ending.”

Beyond the physical and emotional toll, Perry’s pursuit of sobriety was financially burdensome. He candidly disclosed in his memoir that he spent over $7 million on his recovery endeavors.

However, in a subsequent interview with the New York Times, he clarified that the actual expenses might be closer to a staggering $9 million. His struggle also extended to mental health challenges, with Perry sharing, “I’ve been in a mental institution, gone to therapy twice a week for thirty years, been to death’s door.”

Perry’s death is a somber reminder of the intricate interplay between fame, mental health, and addiction. As the world awaits further clarity on the cause of his passing, his legacy as Chandler Bing and his candidness about his personal struggles ensure that he will be remembered and revered for generations to come.