Matthew Perry’s family have said that they are “heartbroken” following the “tragic loss” of their son.

The actor, known for playing Chandler Bing on the American sitcom Friends, has died aged 54.

Officers from the Los Angeles Police Department responded to a radio call just after 4pm on Saturday for a death investigation of a male in his 50s, the PA news agency understands.

In a statement to US publication People, Perry’s family said: “We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of our beloved son and brother.

Matthew Perry deathStars of the American sitcom Friends (Neil Munns/PA)

“Matthew brought so much joy to the world, both as an actor and a friend.”

They added: “You all meant so much to him and we appreciate the tremendous outpouring of love.”

Celebrities have been paying their respects to the actor with American actress Gwyneth Paltrow remembering Perry as the young man she had met in the summer of 1993.

The Sliding Doors star, 51, posted to her Instagram page and said: “I met Matthew Perry in 1993 at the Williamstown Theatre Festival in Massachusetts.

“We were both there for most of the summer doing plays. He was so funny and so sweet and so much fun to be with.

Frederique Constant new watch collection launch – LondonGwyneth Paltrow has paid tribute to the late Matthew Perry (Ian West/PA)

“We drove out to swim in creeks, had beers in the local college bar, kissed in a field of long grass.

“It was a magical summer. He had shot the pilot of Friends but it had not aired yet.

“He was nervous, hoping his big break was just around the corner. It was.

“We stayed friends for a while until we drifted apart, but I was always happy to see him when I did.

“I am super sad today, as so many of us are. I hope Matthew is at peace at long last. I really do.”

Meanwhile, Scottish public figures and Glaswegians have also taken to social media to mourn the star.

Comedian Janey Godley shared a photo of Perry, captioning it: "The one where we say goodbye".

Singer Amy MacDonald wrote a heartbreaking post which simply read: "Matthew Perry. No."

Actor Ross McCall said: "Arguably one of the most iconic characters of my time.

"Matthew Perry shaped many people’s lives through his unquestionable talent. Mine included.

"RIP, pal. Sorry to see you go."

Singer Sandi Thom shared an image of the late actor captioning it "Rest in peace".

 

Glaswegian politicians were also devastated by Perry's death.

Tory Councillor Thomas Kerr wrote: "I don't think the death of someone I never met has hit this hard.

"His recent autobiography about his struggles with addiction was brutally honest and extremely powerful.

"Truly heartbroken."

Labour Councillor Dr Soryia Siddique shared an image of Perry, captioning it "RIP".

In a statement Warner Bros, the entertainment company which made Friends, said: “Matthew was an incredibly gifted actor and an indelible part of the Warner Bros Television Group family.

“The impact of his comedic genius was felt around the world, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of so many.

“This is a heartbreaking day, and we send our love to his family, his loved ones, and all of his devoted fans.”