Matthew Perry’s family issue statement following actor's tragic death

Friends star Matthew Perry's family have released a statement following the actor's passing.

Perry was found having passed away in his hot tub at his home in Los Angeles yesterday (Saturday, 28 October).

The 54-year-old died by an apparent drowning, however, his official cause of death has yet to be released. Authorities noted no foul play is suspected.

Tributes to the actor - best known and much loved for his role as Chandler Bing in hit US sitcom Friends - have flooded in on social media.

Friends co-star Maggie Wheeler - who played Chandler's long-term on-off girlfriend Janice - took to Instagram, writing: "What a loss. The world will miss you Mathew Perry. The joy you brought to so many in your too short lifetime will live on. I feel so very blessed by every creative moment we shared."

Morgan Fairchild - who played Chandler's mom, Nora Bing - said: "I’m heartbroken about the untimely death of my ‘son’ … The loss of such a brilliant young actor is a shock.

"I’m sending love & condolences to his friends & family, especially his dad, John Bennett Perry, who I worked with on Flamingo Road & Falcon Crest."

Warner Bros.

Perry's family has since publicly addressed his passing in a statement sharing with PEOPLE.

The statement reads: "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.

"You all meant so much to him and we appreciate the tremendous outpouring of love."

Ron Galella, Ltd./Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images

Producers of Friends, Warner Bros. Television Group also released a statement paying tribute to Perry.

It reads: "We are devastated by the passing of our dear friend Matthew Perry.

"Matthew was an incredibly gifted actor and an indelible part of the Warner Bros Television Group family. The impact of his comedic genius was felt around the world, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of so many.

"This is a heartbreaking day, and we send our love to his family, his loved ones, and all of his devoted fans."

And the official Friends X - formerly known as Twitter - page tweeted: "We are devastated to learn of Matthew Perry’s passing. He was a true gift to us all. Our heart goes out to his family, loved ones, and all of his fans."

If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677