Hank Azaria, the voice of some of The Simpsons’ most iconic characters and a beloved actor in his own right, recently opened up about the profound friendship he shared with Matthew Perry.

Their bond, which dates back to the days when both were young and struggling to find their footing in Hollywood, became the foundation of a deep connection that endured for decades. Azaria first met Perry when he moved to Los Angeles at 21, while Perry was just 16. Despite the age difference, the two quickly became close. “Matthew was the first friend I made in Los Angeles,” Azaria recalled in an emotional tribute, calling Perry “the funniest man ever.”

But amid the pain and struggle, Azaria’s gratitude for Perry shines through. He credits Perry with helping him achieve sobriety—a life-saving gesture that continues to impact Azaria to this day. “I’m a sober guy for 17 years, and I wanna say that, the night I went into AA, Matthew brought me in,” Azaria revealed. For an entire year, the two friends attended meetings together, with Perry offering guidance, compassion, and wisdom. “He was so caring and giving and wise. And he totally helped me get sober,” Azaria said, his voice filled with gratitude. However, the most heartbreaking aspect of Azaria’s tribute is his acknowledgment of Perry’s own continued struggles. While Perry was instrumental in helping Azaria maintain his sobriety, Perry’s own battle with addiction proved more difficult. “I really wish he could’ve found it in himself to stay with the sober life more consistently,” Azaria said wistfully.

As a performer, Perry’s brilliance extended beyond his comedic timing. While millions of fans knew him as Chandler Bing on Friends, those who worked with him saw his vast potential and depth as an actor. Azaria ended his heartfelt tribute by expressing a deep sense of loss for the career Perry never fully realized. “I just wish we – the world — I and the world — could have gotten what the rest of his career would’ve been.”

Azaria’s tribute paints a vivid picture of a man who was more than just an actor or comedian. Matthew Perry was a friend, a mentor, and a person who cared deeply for others, even as he wrestled with his own demons. Through Azaria’s words, we are reminded of the depth of Perry’s character, both on and off the screen, and the lasting impact he had on the people he loved. While the world may mourn the loss of Matthew Perry, Hank Azaria’s tribute offers a glimpse into the life of a man who lived to make others laugh, to help those around him, and who left an indelible mark on everyone who was fortunate enough to know him.