Reviews

What a vulnerable and open story of human we watched and admired for years without fully understanding his needs. This hits so differently after Matthew Perry’s death and feels tragic in the end.

smithyjosh22's review

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dark funny hopeful inspiring reflective sad medium-paced

4.0

Despite some negative reviews surrounding Matthew Perry's memoir, Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing, particularly regarding his portrayal of doctors, I found it a deeply personal and ultimately hopeful read. Choosing the audiobook format was a wise decision as hearing Perry narrate his own story added a layer of raw authenticity that truly brought the book to life.

The memoir delves beyond the laughs of Chandler Bing. Perry offers glimpses into his career highs, like landing that iconic role and hanging out with Bruce Willis on the set of "The Whole Nine Yards" (and its forgettable sequel). And the time he dated Julia Roberts.

However, the heart of the memoir lies in Perry's unflinching portrayal of his battle with addiction, which is the Big Terrible Thing. As someone who grapples with addiction myself, his brutal honesty resonated deeply. He doesn't shy away from some of his other darker moments – his challenging upbringing causing feelings of abandonment which he carried his whole life, the intimacy issues that led to failed relationships, and the longing for fatherhood he never achieved. This raw vulnerability is what makes the book so valuable, especially for those on their own journeys to recovery.

Criticisms about the portrayal of doctors and the non-linear structure have some merit. However, it's important to remember this is the story of a flawed man. Perry details being prescribed medication as an infant, and this makes his frustration with certain medical professionals more understandable. The non-linear structure, while not strictly chronological, could even be seen as mirroring the chaotic nature of addiction itself.

Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing transcends the typical celebrity memoir. It's a refreshingly honest look at addiction, fame, and the human condition. Perry's story is a beacon of hope, a testament to the power of vulnerability and the possibility of finding light even in the darkest moments. By the end of the memoir, he had found peace, making his untimely death all the more tragic.

RIP Matthew Perry.