Matthew Perry wanted to make superhero called ‘Mattman’ based on his life

11 November 2023 , 07:03

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Matthew Perry wanted to create a 'Mattman' project (Image: Getty Images Europe)

Before his death, Matthew Perry would sign off his social media posts with a simple pun: Mattman.

As a long time fan of the Batman franchise, even titling a chapter in his memoir after it, Matthew wanted to create a 'Mattman' project. Adam McKay revealed to the Hollywood Reporter that the idea came up in conversation while they were working on the movie Don't Look Up.

He said: "It’s about this guy. You’d recognise him. His name is Matt and he’s very famous and about 50 years old. His life is a little bit of a mess. He’s lost. Out of the blue a distant relative dies and leaves him $2 billion — and he uses [it] to become a superhero.”

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Matthew dedicated a chapter of his memoir to Batman (Getty Images for Tribeca Film Festival)

Adam and Matthew apparently discussed Matthew taking on the lead role. In fact, the project idea largely centered around Matthew's own past – including his struggles with addiction and mental health. Adam detailed the plan; he said: "My idea was just to do a show about being this incredibly popular, well-known TV guy who’s dealing with addiction… a fictional version of what you’ve struggled with… The idea that everywhere you go, people yell your catchphrases a little bit of your past, the addiction, what it’s like, because everyone views you through this lens of this cheery, bright, multicolored show.

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According to Adam, the show would have been comedic in nature, but still have a strong 'impact on people's lives'. He genuinely believed in the possibility and success of the show given the current culture shift. In today's world, people speak more openly about mental health than ever before. Adam said he didn't think the would have been as possible if that weren't true.

Matthew's cause of death is still unknown (Getty Images)

He explained: "The world has changed. You could actually do that show now. Ten years ago, people would have said you’re crazy. But now people can be more upfront about their mental health issues, their addiction issues, and it’s kind of wonderful.”

While Matthew struggled with drug addiction, he was reportedly doing better and healthier prior to his death. Authorities found Matthew dead in a hot tub jacuzzi on Oct. 28 and did not find any drugs present on the scene. Additionally, the didn't suspect foul play. His official cause of death is still unknown and NME reported that his autopsy came back inconclusive, but a toxicology report detailed it was not the result of meth or fentanyl.

Alex West