Salma Hayek is paying tribute to Matthew Perry on what would have been his 56th birthday. The actress took to Instagram with a simple, moving message written in both English & Spanish:
“Thinking of you today Matthew 🕊️ Pensando en ti hoy, Matthew 🕊️.”
GettyHayek starred opposite Perry in the 1997 romantic comedy “Fools Rush In,” a film that sparked a lasting connection between the two.
Reflecting on Their Bond Through the Years
In 2023, shortly after Perry’s death, Hayek shared a longer tribute, remembering him with deep affection. “Two days ago, I woke up to the shocking news that Matthew Perry is no longer with us. It’s taken me a couple of days to process this profound sadness,” she wrote at the time.
“There is a special bond that happens when you share dreams with someone, and together you work towards them,” she continued. Hayek recalled how touched she was when Perry once posted on Instagram that “Fools Rush In” was his favorite film he ever made.
Cherishing Memories of a Friendship
Hayek said she & Perry stayed in touch over the years, often looking back on their time together with gratitude. “Throughout the years, he and I found ourselves reminiscing about that meaningful time in our lives with a deep sense of nostalgia and gratitude,” she wrote.
“My friend, you are gone much too soon, but I will continue to cherish your silliness, your perseverance, and your lovely heart. Farewell, sweet Matthew, we will never forget you.”
Loved Ones & Friends Mourn His Loss
(Photo by Getty Images)Perry, 54, was found dead at his Los Angeles home in 2023. His family later said in a statement to People: “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.”
Jennifer Aniston also spoke about Perry’s struggles with addiction, telling Vanity Fair that his friends often felt like they were mourning him long before his passing. “It almost felt like we’d been mourning Matthew for a long time because his battle with that disease was a really hard one for him to fight,” she said.
“We did everything we could when we could,” she added. “As hard as it was for all of us and for the fans, there’s a part of me that thinks this is better. I’m glad he’s out of that pain.”
