The Family of Matthew Perry: A Look at His Parents John, Suzanne, and Stepdad Keith Morrison

Matthew Perry, the beloved actor born on August 19, 1969, was the son of John Bennett Perry and Suzanne Morrison. He also grew up with the support of his stepfather, Keith Morrison, who married Suzanne in 1981. Matthew shared the screen with his father on multiple occasions during his acting career.

After Matthews passing at age 54 in October 2023, his parents and stepfather continued to honor his memory. They released a statement expressing their heartbreak over the loss, celebrating the joy he brought as both an actor and a friend.

In December 2025, prior to the sentencing of Dr. Salvador Plasencia, who admitted to distributing ketamine connected to Matthew's death, his parents and step-parents submitted victim impact letters to the court, describing the depth of their grief and the profound connection they shared with him.

Early Family Life

John and Suzanne were married for less than two years, divorcing before Matthews first birthday. After the separation, Matthew moved with his mother from Williamstown, Massachusetts, to her hometown of Ottawa, Canada. He recalled the anxiety of traveling alone between his parents at a young age, and at age 15, he relocated to California to live with his father John, stepmother Debby, and half-sister Marie.

John Bennett Perrys Career

John Bennett Perry, an actor and performer, appeared in various television shows, commercials, and films including "Little House on the Prairie," "Murder, She Wrote," and "Old Spice" ads. He expressed pride in Matthew following in his footsteps while also recognizing his sons exceptional talent.

Suzanne Morrisons Work and Life

Suzanne pursued a career in journalism and worked as a press secretary for Canadian Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau. Matthew attended school alongside Trudeaus son, Justin, and recalled some mischievous moments from his childhood. Before her journalism career, Suzanne was also a beauty queen, having won the Miss Canadian University Snow Queen title in 1966.

Keith Morrisons Role as Stepfather

Keith Morrison has been a correspondent for Dateline NBC since 1995. He shared a close relationship with Matthew, supporting him alongside Suzanne throughout his life. Following Matthews death, Keith has spoken about the ongoing grief and the efforts to honor Matthews legacy.

Support During Matthews Struggles

In 2001, Matthew reached out to his parents for help with addiction. He was taken to rehab with their support and later shared moments of spiritual awakening with his father, which played a role in his recovery journey. Matthew and John also collaborated on acting projects, including episodes of "Scrubs" and the play The Whole Banana.

Family Expansion

After their divorce, both John and Suzanne remarried and had additional children. Suzanne and Keith welcomed four children: Caitlin, Emily, Will, and Madeline. Keith also has a son from a previous relationship. John and his wife Debby had a daughter named Mia. Together, the blended family has maintained a strong bond over the years.

Legacy and Advocacy

Since Matthews passing, Keith and Suzannes daughter Caitlin have worked on the Matthew Perry Foundation of Canada, focused on helping those struggling with addiction. The family continues to seek justice and raise awareness about the dangers of drug misuse.

Victim Impact Letters

In December 2025, the family submitted letters expressing their grief and holding Dr. Salvador Plasencia accountable for his role in Matthews death. Suzanne and Keith described the emotional devastation, while John and Debby directly questioned the responsibility of the supplier, urging the court to extend his sentence.

Matthew Perrys parents and stepfather remain committed to honoring his memory, supporting others affected by addiction, and preserving the legacy of the actor whose work and life touched millions.

Author: Maya Henderson