Suzanne Perry: The Mother Of Beloved Actor Mathew Perry

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Suzanne Perry is a renowned Canadian journalist and TV anchor, widely recognised for her impressive career in broadcasting and public service. The news of Mathew Perry’s passing in 2023 was met with great sadness worldwide. Known globally for his role in the iconic sitcom Friends, Mathew left behind a legacy cherished by millions. Naturally, this sparked curiosity about his family, especially his mother, Suzanne Perry.

Despite her son’s fame, relatively little is publicly known about Suzanne Perry. However, she has led a remarkable life, not only as the mother of a beloved actor but also as the wife of a prominent broadcaster and a distinguished journalist in her own right.

If you’re eager to learn more about Suzanne Perry’s life, career, and family, you’re in the right place. Here’s everything you need to know.

Who Is Suzanne Perry?

Suzanne Perry, born Suzanne Marie Morrison on 22 July 1943 in Canada, is a celebrated journalist and TV anchor. Over her career, she gained notable recognition, including serving as press secretary to the Canadian Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau. Although now retired, she remains active in charitable fundraising and various social initiatives.

She is a mother of five children and has been married twice — both times to well-known figures. Her first husband was John Bennett Perry, an American actor and former model, while her current husband is Keith Morrison, a respected Canadian broadcast journalist.

Suzanne Perry’s Age: How Old Is She?

Born in 1943, Suzanne Perry is 81 years old in 2024.

Suzanne Perry’s Spouses

Suzanne Perry and John Bennett Perry

Suzanne’s first marriage was to John Bennett Perry in 1968. John, an American actor and former model, is the father of their only child together — Mathew Perry. The marriage was short-lived, ending in divorce after just two years in 1970, when Mathew was still an infant. Due to its brevity, few details are publicly available about their relationship during that period.

Suzanne Perry and Keith Morrison

Suzanne’s second marriage to Keith Morrison has endured for over four decades. They wed in 1981, when Mathew Perry was twelve years old. Keith Morrison is a well-known Canadian TV journalist, who had a son, Michael, from a previous marriage. While Suzanne and Keith have maintained a private family life, it is known that Keith shared a close and supportive relationship with Mathew as a stepfather.

Suzanne Perry’s Children

In total, Suzanne Perry has six children — five biological and one stepson. Mathew Perry is her son from her first marriage to John Bennett Perry.

From her marriage to Keith Morrison, she has four children: three daughters — Caitlin (born 1981), Emily (born 1985), Madeleine (born 1989) — and a son, Willy (born 1987). Her stepson, Michael, comes from Keith Morrison’s previous relationship. The family tends to keep their private lives away from the public eye.

Suzanne Perry’s Career

Suzanne Perry’s professional journey began at the University of Toronto, where she was recognised for both her talent and beauty, earning the title of Miss Canadian University Snow Queen in 1966.

Following university, she launched a career as a television anchor and journalist for Global Television News in Canada. Her abilities soon attracted the attention of the Canadian government, leading to her appointment as press secretary for Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau.

After her political role, Suzanne continued her involvement in politics and public service through fundraising, writing, and consulting, establishing herself as a respected figure beyond journalism.

Suzanne Perry and Mathew Perry

Mathew Perry, born in Williamstown, Massachusetts, grew up primarily in Ottawa, Canada, before relocating to Los Angeles to pursue acting. His breakout role in Friends (1994–2004) made him a household name worldwide, celebrated for his sharp comedic timing and wit.

Beyond Friends, Mathew appeared in films such as The Whole Nine Yards and TV series like The Odd Couple. He was open about his struggles with addiction, becoming an advocate for sobriety and mental health awareness.

Mathew’s untimely death in 2023 was deeply felt by fans and colleagues alike, with many of his Friends co-stars paying tribute on social media.

Throughout Mathew’s life, Suzanne played a pivotal role, encouraging his pursuit of showbusiness — a path reflecting the family’s entertainment roots, with both parents having careers in media and acting.

Even during Mathew’s battles with addiction, Suzanne remained a steadfast source of support. He often turned to his mother in moments of crisis, highlighting the strength of their bond amid his challenges.