The Friends cast has finally addressed the death of Matthew Perry.
Stars Matt LeBlanc, Lisa Kudrow, Courteney Cox, Jennifer Aniston and David Schwimmer released a statement on Tuesday morning to People magazine in the US saying they were "utterly devastated" by Matthew Perry's death.
The joint statement was the first time the cast had addressed the loss of Perry, who died on Saturday (US time) from a suspected drowning at his home.
"We are all so utterly devastated by the loss of Matthew. We were more than just cast mates. We are a family," their statement read.
"There is so much to say, but right now we're going to take a moment to grieve and process this unfathomable loss.
"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."
Tributes had poured in since the news was made public, with Friends show creators Marta Kauffman, David Crane and Kevin Bright issuing a joint statement on Sunday (US time).
"It still seems impossible. All we can say is that we feel blessed to have had him as part of our lives," they said.
The official Friends Instagram site had also paid tribute, saying he was a "true gift".
"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."
Meanwhile, singer Adele became the first to speak publicly about the impact Perry's character Chandler Bing had on her during her Las Vegas show on Saturday night.
"I'll remember that character for the rest of my life," she said as the audience cheered, the Los Angeles Times reported.
"He's probably the best comedic actor of all time," she said.
Perry was found unresponsive in his hot tub after an emergency call to local 911 services.
The death has been deferred by the Los Angeles coroner, meaning it requires further investigation.
