Matthew Perry: New owner of Friends star's LA home shares details of blessing ceremony

A real estate developer who has bought Matthew Perry's former home in Los Angeles has shared details of a blessing ceremony carried out at the property.

Anita Verma-Lallian, who is also a film producer, posted pictures and a video on Instagram, saying she and her family plan to honour "the positive aspects of the previous owner's life, his immense talent, and all the joy he brought to so many people".

She also said she would retain some of the features - including the famous Batman logo in the pool at the property, which "is definitely staying".

Perry was found dead at the house in the Pacific Palisades area on 28 October 2023, aged 54.

In her post on Instagram, Ms Verma-Lallian wrote: "The moment I walked into the home, I absolutely fell in love with the features, especially the view of the Pacific Ocean. We knew it was 'the one' and decided to write an offer on it immediately.

"As a real estate developer myself, I believe every property has a history that we may or may not know about, and every home carries the energy that the current owner brings to it.

"I am Hindu, and it's customary to do a blessing and prayer anytime you buy a new home. We were so lucky to have our Panditji [Hindu priest] from Arizona come to the house to do the blessing."

The decision to buy the property had nothing to do with Perry, "just our love of the home", Ms Verma-Lallian added.

She said the family would keep some of the design elements, including the Batman logo, and added: "It's a piece of paradise that is filled with light and the perfect vacation home for us. Can't wait to make new memories in it."

The property was sold for $8.55m (£6.6m) in an off-market deal, according to US media.

During his life, Perry was open about his battle with substance abuse and addiction - and set up a sober living facility for men with similar issues.

Ketamine, a sedative that can be used as a recreational drug, as well as to treat depression and pain management, was found to be the primary cause of his death.

Five people were charged earlier this year after an investigation unearthed a "broad underground criminal network" of people who "took advantage" of Perry when he fell back into addiction.

On the anniversary of the actor's death last month, Friends stars including Courteney Cox and Jennifer Aniston paid tribute, with Cox sharing photos and writing on Instagram: "Missing you today and always."

(c) Sky News 2024: Matthew Perry: New owner of Friends star's LA home shares details of blessing ceremony