Matthew Perry's friends have launched a foundation which focuses on helping people battling addiction after the Friends star tragically died over the weekend.

The iconic Chandler Bing actor tragically passed away on Saturday due to an apparent drowning in a hot tub.

Matthew had openly spoken about his struggles with drug and alcohol addiction and detailed his journey in his honest memoir released last year.

The actor became addicted to the painkiller Vicodin after a 1997 jet skiing accident and, at the peak of his addiction, was taking 55 tablets a day before his first stint in rehab.

In his memoir, Matthew wrote that he spent over $7million on his journey to sobriety – later stating in a New York Times interview that the figure was closer to $9million.

Now, close friends of the star have announced the formation of the foundation in the beloved actor's name, which will “honour his legacy”.

A statement from the organisation said: “The Matthew Perry Foundation is the realization of Matthew's enduring commitment to helping others struggling with the disease of addiction.

“It will honour his legacy and be guided by his own words and experiences and driven by his passion for making a difference in as many lives as possible,' the statement announcing the foundation declared.”

The new organisation also cited a quote from Matthew himself on their website which read: “When I die, I don't want 'Friends' to be the first thing that's mentioned – I want helping others to be the first thing that's mentioned. And I'm going to live the rest of my life proving that. Addiction is far too powerful for anyone to defeat alone. But together, one day at a time, we can beat it down.”

Investigations into the actor’s death are still ongoing, however, officials have revealed that there is no indication of foul play.

Earlier this week, Matthew’s cast mates, Jennifer Aniston, Matt LeBlanc, Courteney Cox, David Schwimmer and Lisa Kudrow came together to pay a heartbreaking tribute to the star, who they described as “family”.

Sharing the joint tribute with People, they said they are "utterly devastated by the loss of Matthew", adding: "We were more than just cast mates. We are a family."

They continued: "In time we will say more, as and when we are able. For now, our thoughts and our love are with Matty's family, his friends, and everyone who loved him around the world."

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