Almost three years after Matthew Perry's death, Netflix is set to premiere a three-part documentary series that promises a deeper look at the actor's life beyond his iconic role as Chandler Bing in Friends. Titled The One About Matthew Perry, the series arrives on the platform on October 27, just one day before the third anniversary of his passing in 2023 at age 54.
An intimate portrait from those who knew him best
Directed by Emmy-winning filmmaker Mary Robertson, the documentary draws on never-before-seen interviews with Perry's sister, Mia Perry Bowick, and his closest friends. Together, they share personal memories, archival footage, and reflections on the man behind the laughter—a person who was generous, funny, and deeply vulnerable.
Robertson has described Perry as "one of our era's comedy geniuses," noting that his performances made millions laugh. But she emphasizes that the public only saw part of his story. The series aims to reveal the person behind the character, exploring the complexities of his life with honesty and care.
"We only knew part of his story," Robertson said in a statement. "This documentary is about showing who Matthew really was."
Mia Perry Bowick admitted that she needed time to feel ready to share these memories, but she hopes the series allows viewers to see her brother fully—beyond Chandler—and to recognize the courage he showed in battling addiction.
A legacy of honesty and advocacy
Perry had long spoken publicly about his struggles with substance abuse, becoming a vital voice for those facing similar battles. His family continues that mission through the Matthew Perry House, a sober living facility directed by Caitlin Morrison. The documentary weaves this advocacy into its narrative, focusing on truth and vulnerability as a way to honor his legacy.
The series, produced by Maxine Productions, goes beyond a simple career retrospective. It reaches into Perry's personal experiences and closest relationships, gathering stories from creative collaborators and friends that have never been told before. Using unreleased photographs and videos from Perry's private archives, the documentary offers an intimate and respectful look at his journey.
For Latino audiences who grew up watching Friends dubbed or subtitled across the Americas, Perry's humor transcended borders. His portrayal of Chandler Bing became a cultural touchstone in cities from Buenos Aires to México City. This documentary offers a chance to see the man behind the jokes, a narrative that resonates with anyone who has faced personal struggles while trying to make others laugh.
As the release date approaches, fans are also looking ahead to other streaming offerings. For a broader view of what's coming, check out our September 2026 streaming guide for top new and returning series on Netflix and other platforms.
The documentary's release also coincides with a moment when conversations about mental health and addiction are more open than ever. Perry's story, told by those who loved him, adds a powerful voice to that dialogue. It reminds us that behind every public persona is a human being with a complex inner life.
In a world where celebrity often feels distant, The One About Matthew Perry aims to bridge that gap. It's not just a tribute to a beloved actor; it's a testament to the enduring impact of honesty and the importance of community in times of struggle.
For those who admired Perry's work, this documentary is an opportunity to understand him more deeply. For those who have faced similar challenges, it may offer a sense of solidarity. Either way, it promises to be a moving and insightful look at a life that touched millions.
