Lawyer Tells Us What Could Happen To Matthew Perry's Staggering Fortune

Matthew Perry had an incredible career that gave him great financial success. Unfortunately, the "Friends" actor tragically passed away and left behind around $120 million, per Celebrity Net Worth.

According to TMZ, on October 28th, 2023, Perry suddenly died at the age of 54 after an apparent drowning at his California home. Authorities immediately ruled out any foul play and revealed that there were no drugs found at the scene. Fans were left in absolute shock after news of Perry's death broke. Many paid respect to the actor through tributes and have praised his years-long career.

"Friends" catapulted Perry into success starting from the first season. Each actor on the show earned nearly $23,000 per episode, per InTouch Weekly. Perry and his castmates walked away with $540,000 in the first season alone! By the final season, each cast member was earning $1 million per episode, and it was reported that by the time the show wrapped, Perry had made $90 million, and that's not even counting any bonuses or residuals. But the actor didn't stop there; he went on to star in hit films like "Fools Rush In" and "17 Again," plus he also owned a large collection of property. Ultimately, Perry was worth $120 million at the time of his death, so what happens to his fortune now? Well, Los Angeles probate attorney Arash Sadat is telling Nicki Swift what could happen to the "Friends" actor's fortune.

From "Friend" to films, real estate, and best-selling books, Matthew Perry had an incredible career. However, the actor never married, nor did he have any kids, which has made many fans wonder what will happen to his fortune. Well, attorney Arash Sadat is exclusively telling Nicki Swift the possibilities that could occur to Perry's remaining assets and wealth.

Sadat explained there are three ways in which Perry's fortune can go. He shared with Nicki Swift, "If he had a trust, then his assets would be distributed per the terms of his trust and without the need for approval or oversight in probate court." However, if Perry had a will in place with listed beneficiaries, they would have to "file a petition in probate court to have his estate distributed per the terms of the will." If he had no trust or will, well, there would still be a plan in place. Sadat explained to Nicki Swift, "The process would be similar if he had no trust and no will, except that his assets would go to his closest living relatives — in this case, his parents." Sadat notes that if either of the last two scenarios unfold, having a will or not having a will and trust, Perry's financial documents would be made public. Only time will tell as to how the distribution of Perry's wealth will play out.

Given the close bond he shared with his parents, It seems likely that at least a portion of Matthew Perry's fortune will go to them. However, Perry could have also earmarked some of his fortune for charitable endeavors. Perry spoke openly about his dedication to helping others — especially those facing substance use issues — during his final years of life. "The best thing about me is that if an alcoholic or drug addict comes up to me and says 'Will you help me?' I will always say 'Yes, I know how to do that,'" Perry wrote in his 2022 memoir (via The Guardian). Perry also admitted that his ability to help others — while maintaining his own sobriety — made the years 2001 through 2003 extra special, per Rolling Stone. 

As for why he decided to help others, Perry revealed that his personal struggles played a substantial role. "You are plagued by this nagging question: Why have I been spared?" wrote the star (via NBC). Fortunately, Perry was able to do a great deal of good before his death. As NBC noted, Perry once headed up a sober living house. According to ET, Perry was also in the middle of creating a foundation that would help assist substance users in their sobriety journey. How much Perry was able to establish is a mystery. In any case, it's possible that Perry, through a will or other legal document, had set aside funds for the cause. Of course, this is just speculation. But given the actor's intense desire to do good, it's certainly not beyond the realm of possibilities.

Let's hope that Perry's wealth goes to those places nearest to his heart.