Former SNL writer faces backlash for mocking Matthew Perry’s death, expressing joy over the demise of addicts.
Ex-SNL Writer Under Fire for Mocking Matthew Perry’s Death: ‘I Do Love It When Junkies Die’
Laughing at the death of actor Matthew Perry is certainly one way to get your name out there.
Ex-Saturday Night Live writer Kevin Brennan, who operates the “Misery Loves Company” podcast, took to social media and made a series of disparaging remarks about the deceased Perry — all of which quickly garnered attention for the general callousness of them.
Perry, 54, was found dead from an apparent drowning in his Los Angeles home on Saturday.
Perhaps best known for portraying the wildly popular Chandler Bing on the even more popular “Friends” sitcom, tributes and memories for the actor swiftly poured in all across the world.
Brennan’s tenor in terms of Perry’s death was decidedly different than most of the world.
The first salvo fired by Brennan simply laughed at Perry’s death.
DROWNED IN A HOT TUB. HAHAHAHA
Friends’ Star Matthew Perry Dead at 54 After Apparent Drowning https://t.co/fSA7d7hZ2f
— The MLC Podcast (@mlcpodcast) October 29, 2023
“DROWNED IN A HOT TUB. HAHAHAHA,” Brennan posted to social media.
That social media post set off a firestorm of controversy as it began to gain traction and coverage.
Brennan, clearly dedicated to the bit, doubled down on his remarks as people began calling him out for it.
WARNING: The following post contains language that some readers may find offensive
Thank you. https://t.co/87OwCukY3e
— The MLC Podcast (@mlcpodcast) October 30, 2023
“I will never understand the mindset of someone who posts s*** like this. I wish you well bc you must be sick,” one social media user wrote to Brennan.
“Thank you,” the podcaster responded.
Sounds like fun. https://t.co/2AeGnIPExh https://t.co/oLlWTaX8h6
— The MLC Podcast (@mlcpodcast) October 30, 2023
“What a prick I hope you never are affected by this insidious disease,” one social media user posted, in reference to Perry’s long-documented struggles with alcohol and opioid addiction, and the bevy of adverse health effects that those addictions would lead to.
“Sounds like fun,” Brennan retorted.
Because it’s not very deep. https://t.co/cPnFaNLSOW
— The MLC Podcast (@mlcpodcast) October 30, 2023
“Why is drowning in a hot tub funny,” one social media user wanted to know.
“Because it’s not very deep,” Brennan said.
But the most biting remarks made by Brennan came when he quote-posted a TMZ article covering his comments regarding Perry.
I didn’t mock it. I just thought it was funny. But I do love it when junkies die. https://t.co/kfQmIkOQwD
— The MLC Podcast (@mlcpodcast) October 30, 2023
“I didn’t mock [Perry’s death],” Brennan said in his social media post. “I just thought it was funny. But I do love it when junkies die.”
The post Ex-SNL Writer Under Fire for Mocking Matthew Perry’s Death: ’I Do Love It When Junkies Die’ appeared first on The Western Journal.
How should those in the public eye use their platform responsibly
Er.com/mlcpodcast/status/1718811001203831410?”>October 30, 2023
When confronted with the criticism of his insensitive remarks, Brennan did not back down. In fact, he went even further by stating, “I didn’t mock it. I just thought it was funny. But I do love it when junkies die.”
This statement sparked outrage across social media platforms, with many users expressing their disgust at Brennan’s callousness.
Perry’s struggles with addiction have been well-documented, making Brennan’s comments particularly insensitive. The actor had openly spoken about his battles with alcohol and opioid addiction, and his efforts to overcome them.
It is not uncommon for celebrities to face backlash for their comments or actions, but Brennan’s remarks went beyond mere controversy. They represented a lack of empathy and an utter disregard for the pain and suffering of others.
As a former writer for Saturday Night Live, Brennan should be well aware of the responsibilities that come with being in the public eye. His podcast, “Misery Loves Company,” should have provided him with a platform to uplift and entertain, not to spread negativity and contempt.
It is disheartening to see someone in a position of influence and prominence use their platform to spread hate and fuel negativity. The power of words should never be underestimated, and it is imperative that those in the public eye exercise their influence responsibly.
Grief and loss are deeply personal experiences, and mocking someone’s death is not only cruel, but it also shows a lack of compassion and understanding. The entertainment industry has a long history of grappling with issues of addiction and mental health, and it is important to address these issues with empathy and support.
It is my hope that Kevin Brennan reflects on the impact of his words and takes responsibility for the harm he has caused. Instead of using his platform to further perpetuate negativity, he has an opportunity to educate himself, learn from his mistakes, and promote compassion and empathy.
In times of tragedy, it is crucial that we come together as a community and support one another. Matthew
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