• Lauren Graham has remembered Matthew Perry
  • The two were great friends
  • Lauren recalls his very happy year

In the glitzy world of Hollywood, the stars shine bright, but sometimes they fade too soon. In a heartfelt tribute that's got fans reaching for tissues, Lauren Graham opened up about the late, great Matthew Perry leaving us all with a bittersweet taste of nostalgia. On a recent 'CBS Mornings' appearance, Graham, the beloved 'Gilmore Girls' star, shared her cherished memories of Perry, the 'Friends' icon whose laughter and talent captured hearts worldwide.

Lauren has nothing but love for Matthew

"This last year, he was so proud of the book he wrote, and of how many people it touched," Graham said, her voice a mixture of pride and sorrow. Perry's memoir, a poignant tale of triumph and tribulation, was a beacon of hope for many, and for Perry, a crowning achievement that brought him immense joy.

The shock of Perry's untimely departure on October 28 still hangs heavy in the air. "I am still in shock," Graham confessed. "It’s a really tragic loss." But amid the tragedy, she finds solace in his legacy. "He leaves his beautiful work behind. That’s something to be thankful for," she added, a testament to the enduring impact of Perry's artistry.

Their friendship was the stuff of Hollywood legend. From uproarious laughter to shared dreams, Graham and Perry's bond was unbreakable. "No one made me laugh as hard," Graham reminisced, recalling the joy Perry brought into her life. Their camaraderie was undeniable, both on-screen in the 2008 film Birds of America and off-screen, where they shared countless memories.

Matthew and Lauren could have been an item

"No one made me laugh as hard," Graham said. "I mean, just tears streaming. There was just such joy in being around him and being his friend."

In a touching nod to their connection, Perry once called Graham "one of my favorite people," highlighting the special chemistry they shared. And who can forget that almost-romance? Graham herself dubbed Perry her "FWIABNED" (Friend Who I Almost But Never Exactly Dated) in her memoir, 'Talking As Fast As I Can.'

And Graham is still coming to terms with Perry's sudden death. Still, she acknowledged how important this final chapter was for the Fools Rush In star, who had spoken about how he hoped his book, which recounts his struggle with addiction and quest to get sober, would help others on a similar journey.

"It's just a really tragic loss and he leaves his beautiful work behind and that's something to be thankful for," the actress expressed. "And again, the book really meant something to him. So it was a really happy year for him."

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Perry's legacy extends beyond the screen, with the Matthew Perry Foundation continuing his mission to aid those battling addiction. His story, a stark reminder of the fragility of life, continues to inspire and support countless individuals.

For the fans and friends he left behind, Matthew Perry's memory is a treasure, his laughter a melody that echoes through time. As we bid farewell to a star taken too soon, let's hold onto the joy he brought into our lives.

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, the SAMHSA helpline at 1-800-662-HELP is available.