The unexpected passing of actor Matthew Perry, renowned for his iconic portrayal of Chandler Bing in the beloved TV show “Friends,” has triggered an outpouring of grief and condolences across the globe. However, former “Saturday Night Live” writer Kevin Brennan has faced widespread backlash for insensitive comments regarding the circumstances surrounding Perry’s death.
Upon learning of Matthew Perry’s demise, Brennan took to social media to post several messages that were deemed offensive and inconsiderate. In one tweet, he wrote, “DROWNED IN A HOT TUB. HAHAHAHA,” a comment that was swiftly met with strong criticism from the online community.
One individual questioned Brennan’s remarks, asking, “Why is drowning in a hot tub funny?” To this, the comedian responded, “Because it’s not very deep.”
Brennan remained steadfast in his controversial stance, even as public outrage grew. In response to a story reported by TMZ, he maintained, “I didn’t mock it, I just thought it was funny. But I do love it when junkies die.”
The 63-year-old comedian, who hosts the “Misery Loves Company” podcast, appeared to embrace the negative attention he was receiving and even inquired, “Am I trending yet?” in a tweet on Sunday.
The insensitive comments by Brennan have drawn sharp criticism from fans of Matthew Perry, who praised the actor’s work and mourned his passing. One individual posted, “Matthew Perry will be remembered and loved. No one will notice when you’re gone.”
Another observer noted, “It’s really sad when someone takes a tragedy and tries to gain popularity from it.”
One comment emphasized, “This man is mourned because he made us all laugh. Something clearly no one will say the same for you when it’s your time.”
Kevin Brennan, the older brother of comedian and “Chappelle’s Show” co-creator Neal Brennan, has faced severe backlash for his insensitive remarks. Perry’s fans, alongside a significant portion of the public, have strongly condemned Brennan’s comments as being in poor taste and inappropriate.
Matthew Perry, aged 54, was found deceased at his California residence on a Saturday. First responders had been called to his home in response to a potential cardiac arrest. Perry had recently released a memoir that recounted his struggles with drug and alcohol addiction, detailing a near-death experience. He had disclosed spending over $9 million on various rehabilitation programs and underwent 14 surgeries to address physical issues resulting from years of substance abuse. Perry claimed to have been sober since May 2021, but the cause of his death remains undisclosed.
A Statement from The Atticus Flynn Talent Agency:
We wholeheartedly disavow these horrible,callous,words from Kevin Brennan concerning Matthew Perry’s untimely passing. Our clients Barry Ribs & Alex Stein will NOT be associated with Kevin or his podcast for the foreseable future https://t.co/2BnepGPoy0 pic.twitter.com/P4EmGjmlvh
— The Atticus Flynn Talent Agency (@atticusflynch) October 30, 2023
A Statement from The Atticus Flynn Talent Agency:
We wholeheartedly disavow these horrible,callous,words from Kevin Brennan concerning Matthew Perry’s untimely passing. Our clients Barry Ribs & Alex Stein will NOT be associated with Kevin or his podcast for the foreseable future https://t.co/2BnepGPoy0 pic.twitter.com/P4EmGjmlvh
— The Atticus Flynn Talent Agency (@atticusflynch) October 30, 2023
