The documentary titled Matthew Perry: A Hollywood Tragedy will premiere on ITV1 and ITVX on August 18, 2023, at 21:00 London time. This one-hour film, produced by ITN Productions, explores the life and untimely death of the beloved Friends star, who passed away at the age of 54 in October 2023. The documentary was initially commissioned by Peacock/NBC and debuted on the platform earlier this year in February.
The film quickly gained traction, making its way onto Peacock’s top ten list of most-watched shows during its premiere week. As part of its global licensing and distribution strategy, Blue Ant Studios has secured its release in the U.K. This sale reflects the film’s relevance and significance, especially in light of recent developments in the investigation surrounding Perry’s death.
New Insights into Matthew Perry’s Final Days
ITN Productions updated the documentary to include recent information regarding Dr. Salvador Plascencia, who pleaded guilty to administering ketamine to Perry in the weeks leading up to his death. The film’s synopsis highlights the intertwining stories of Perry’s rise to fame and the tragic circumstances of his final days, noting that he allegedly received drugs from individuals who “should have known better,” according to U.S. authorities.
The documentary features candid commentary from Morgan Fairchild, who portrayed Chandler Bing’s mother on Friends. Fairchild discusses Perry’s struggles with addiction and reflects on her experiences working alongside him. The film also includes insights from various Hollywood figures, medical professionals, and journalist Katy Forrester, as well as Martin Estrada, the District Attorney at the Central District of California during the time of Perry’s passing.
Industry Response and Global Distribution
The response from the industry underscores the documentary’s importance. Gerbrig Blanksma, Senior Vice President of International Sales and Partnerships at Blue Ant Studios, remarked that the sale to ITV is a testament to the project’s timely exploration of Perry’s life and tragic end. The film has already been sold in nearly 20 territories worldwide, with expectations for continued interest.
Sasha Breslau, ITV’s Head of Content Acquisitions, expressed excitement about bringing this compelling film to ITVX, emphasizing its depth and the firsthand accounts it features from those who knew Perry. The film aims to shed light on both his illustrious career and the circumstances surrounding his death, incorporating new developments not previously reported.
Executive producers of the documentary include Ian Russell, Head of International Programs for ITN, along with Mike Griffiths and Robert Palumbo. Palumbo directed the film, while Nickie Hyde served as the production manager. The project was commissioned by Cori Abraham, Senior Vice President at NBCUniversal, and is distributed globally by Blue Ant Studios.
Overall, Matthew Perry: A Hollywood Tragedy aims to provide an in-depth look at the life of one of television’s most cherished actors, capturing both his achievements and the challenges he faced. As the premiere date approaches, viewers can anticipate a poignant and revealing portrait of Matthew Perry’s legacy.
