Matthew Perry wanted to create a semi-autobiographical superhero project, ‘Mattman’
Friends star Matthew Perry previously discussed plans to collaborate with Adam McKay on a semi-autobiographical superhero project titled Mattman.
The renowned actor tragically passed away at the age of 54 in his Los Angeles residence on October 28th. A private funeral ceremony was held for Perry in the city on November 3rd.
In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, McKay shared that he had conversations about the Mattman project with Perry during their collaboration on Don’t Look Up.
“It’s about this guy,” McKay recalled. “You’d recognise him. His name is Matt and he’s very famous and about 50 years old. His life is a little bit of a mess. He’s lost. Out of the blue a distant relative dies and leaves him $2 billion — and he uses [it] to become a superhero.”
He continued: “My idea was just to do a show about being this incredibly popular, well-known TV guy who’s dealing with addiction…a fictional version of what you’ve struggled with…The idea that everywhere you go, people yell your catchphrases, a little bit of your past, the addiction, what it’s like, because everyone views you through this lens of this cheery, bright, multicoloured show.”
Adding: “And then, meanwhile, you’re a human being who’s dealing with real addiction, real pain. It could be an incredible show. It could be really funny. It could really affect people’s lives.”
McKay also suggested that the show would have likely found a dedicated audience in today’s landscape. “The world has changed,” he said. “You could actually do that show now. Ten years ago, people would have said you’re crazy. But now people can be more upfront about their mental health issues, their addiction issues, and it’s kind of wonderful.”
Throughout his life and career, Perry openly shared his struggles with addiction, emphasising a message of hope and resilience.
Following his death, his family said in a statement: “We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of our beloved son and brother. Matthew brought so much joy to the world, both as an actor and a friend.”
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