Matthew Perry will be remembered not only as a famous and funny actor from "Friends," but also as someone who helped people get sober, according to Hank Azaria. Azaria, who met Perry almost 40 years ago, shares in an op-ed for The New York Times how Perry was not only the funniest friend he ever had, but also the one who helped him get sober. In 2005, Azaria called Perry for support, knowing that he had struggled with alcohol addiction and had quit a few years prior.

Perry agreed to take Azaria to his first A.A. meeting. When they arrived at a large gathering in Brentwood, California, Azaria felt overwhelmed and uncertain how being in a room with so many people would help him.

However, Perry explained that being surrounded by others who were facing similar struggles could make them feel less alone. Perry referred to the A.A. meeting as "God's bunch of drunks together in a room," emphasizing the power of collective support.

Azaria soon realized the importance of sharing his struggles with others and hearing their stories. He discovered that the most challenging experiences in life could ultimately connect people and become a source of strength.

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