7 Shocking Facts About John Bennett Perry: Matthew Perry's Actor Father Who Appeared On 'Friends' And 'Scrubs'

The legacy of Matthew Perry, the beloved actor who brought Chandler Bing to life on Friends, is inextricably linked to his family, particularly his father, John Bennett Perry. As of December 10, 2025, the world continues to mourn Matthew’s tragic passing, and the focus has naturally turned to the close bond he shared with his actor dad, John Bennett Perry, a man whose own extensive career in Hollywood often ran parallel to his son’s. The most recent and heartbreaking updates concern the family's shared grief and their emotional letters in the legal proceedings against Matthew’s doctor, highlighting the depth of their loss.

The father-son dynamic between Matthew and John was unique, marked by shared professional ground and a deep personal connection that saw them reunite just a week before Matthew’s death. Beyond being the father of a global superstar, John Bennett Perry is a respected actor, singer, and model in his own right, known for his work across film, television, and even iconic commercials. This article dives deep into the life, career, and enduring relationship between John Bennett Perry and his late son, Matthew.

John Bennett Perry: A Complete Biography and Career Profile

John Bennett Perry, often recognized for his striking looks and extensive television work, has an acting career that predates his son's rise to fame. His professional life spans decades, from the world of modeling to recurring roles in major soap operas and primetime dramas.

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• Full Name: Johnathan Bennett Perry
• Date of Birth: January 4, 1941
• Place of Birth: Williamstown, Massachusetts
• Occupation: Retired Actor, Singer, and Former Model
• Spouse (Matthew's Mother): Suzanne Marie Morrison (m. 1968–1970)
• Spouse (Current): Debbie Boyle (married in 1981)
• Children: Matthew Perry (1969–2023) and Mia Perry
• Notable Commercial Role: The suave sailor in the iconic Old Spice cologne commercials (c. 1970s)
• Major TV Roles: Falcon Crest, Flamingo Road, 240-Robert, L.A. Law, and guest roles on shows like The West Wing and Veronica Mars.
• Film Appearances: Lipstick (1976), Midway (1976), and, notably, Fools Rush In (1997) with his son.

John Bennett Perry began his career as a professional model in the 1960s, a path that led to his most recognizable early role as the face of Old Spice. His transition to acting saw him become a fixture on American television, often playing handsome, authoritative figures. This established career provided a unique backdrop for Matthew’s own aspirations in Hollywood.

The Unique Father-Son Dynamic: Acting Together on Screen

One of the most fascinating aspects of their relationship is the number of times John and Matthew Perry shared screen credits. It’s a rare occurrence in Hollywood for a father and son to appear in the same projects, often playing characters that reflect their real-life roles. This shared professional history is a testament to John’s influence and Matthew’s desire to keep his family close.

1. The Iconic Movie Role: Fools Rush In (1997)

The most famous instance of their collaboration is the 1997 romantic comedy film Fools Rush In, starring Matthew Perry and Salma Hayek. In a touching piece of casting, John Bennett Perry played the role of Matthew's character's father. This casting choice added an authentic layer of warmth and familiarity to their on-screen interactions, allowing audiences to witness a genuine father-son chemistry.

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2. The Surprise Friends Cameo

Many fans were unaware that John Bennett Perry actually appeared in a classic episode of Friends. He had a cameo in the Season 4 episode, "The One with Rachel's New Dress," playing the father of Joshua, Rachel’s love interest at the time. While he didn't share a scene directly with Matthew (as Chandler Bing), his presence on the set of the show that defined his son’s career is a memorable piece of trivia that highlights their shared professional world.

3. Shared Roles in Other TV Hits

Their shared screen time wasn't limited to one film. Both John Bennett Perry and Matthew Perry made appearances in the sitcom Home Free and the medical comedy-drama Scrubs. In the Scrubs episode "My Unicorn," John played the father of a character Matthew was portraying, once again cementing the idea that they enjoyed working together and playing off their real-life relationship. This pattern of collaboration speaks volumes about their close, supportive professional and personal relationship.

The Blended Family and Shared Grief

Matthew Perry's family life was shaped by a blended family dynamic following his parents' divorce when he was a baby. His mother, Suzanne Morrison, married Canadian broadcast journalist Keith Morrison (known for his work on Dateline NBC), who became Matthew's beloved stepfather. Despite the separation, Matthew maintained a close bond with both his biological father, John Bennett Perry, and his stepfather, Keith Morrison, who recently opened up about Matthew's "dying wish" to be remembered for helping others.

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The tragic news of Matthew’s death in October 2023 brought the entire family together in shared grief. Both John Bennett Perry and Suzanne Morrison were photographed arriving at Matthew’s home shortly after the news broke, demonstrating the unified front of the family during this devastating time. The family later released a joint statement expressing their heartbreak.

In a powerful and recent development, John Bennett Perry and Suzanne Morrison shared emotional victim impact letters ahead of the December 3 sentencing of Dr. Salvador Plasencia, who was involved in Matthew's care. These letters, which are not public but were referenced in news reports, convey the immense and ongoing pain of a parent losing a child, underscoring the depth of John Bennett Perry's love and the tragic circumstances surrounding Matthew's final years.

John Bennett Perry's Enduring Legacy

While Matthew Perry's fame eclipsed his father's in the eyes of the global audience, John Bennett Perry's career is an important part of Hollywood history. He was a successful working actor who navigated the industry for decades, providing a grounded, professional example for his son. His early success as the "Old Spice Guy" is an iconic piece of advertising history, and his consistent work in television and film showcases a versatile talent.

The fact that Matthew Perry frequently sought out opportunities to work with his father—from the major motion picture Fools Rush In to recurring TV roles—is the ultimate tribute to their bond. It suggests a deep respect and mutual admiration between the two actors. In the wake of Matthew's passing, John Bennett Perry's life is now viewed not just as a successful actor's career, but as the foundation and support system for one of the world's most cherished comedic talents. His enduring legacy is one of a loving father who shared his professional world with his son, creating a series of touching on-screen moments that fans can now revisit with a new appreciation for their unique family connection.