Suzanne Perry has held a variety of roles in her life, such as model, journalist, and press secretary for the Canadian prime minister. She is the mother of renowned late actor Matthew Perry.
Her son, Matthew Perry, was best known for his role as Chandler in the hit 90s sitcom FRIENDS. Unfortunately, the beloved actor recently passed away at the age of 54 on October 28, 2023.
Suzanne Perry Bio Summary
Full name: Suzanne Perry
Birth name: Suzanne Langford
Birthdate: 1948
Birthplace: Los Angeles, California, United States
Nationality: Canadian
Marital status: Married
Spouse: Keith Morrison (m. 1981), John Bennett Perry (m. 1968–1970)
Children: Matthew Perry, Willy Morrison, Caitlin Morrison, Emily Morrison, Madeleine Morrison
Occupation: Former news anchor & journalist
Early Life & Education
Suzanne Langford was born in 1948 in Los Angeles, California, USA to parents Warren Langford, a businessman, and a homemaker mother. She has a sister, Martha, and was raised in a very prominent family as her grandfather was the founder of the Bank of California.
As a young girl, she went to private schools in Los Angeles but eventually moved to Canada with her family. After completing her studies at the University of Toronto, she earned a degree in political science. From her early days, she was captivated by journalism and politics and was involved in a number of student societies and activities.
Career
In the late 1960s and early 70s, Suzanne Perry embarked on a career in modeling. She graced many magazines and campaigns, flaunting her allure and magnetism. Additionally, she was a presenter on the television program The New You.
She quickly concluded that modeling wasn’t her true calling, and instead opted to pursue a career in journalism. Subsequently, she joined CBC as a news anchor and reporter for different news shows. She reported on significant happenings including the Yom Kippur War, the Watergate controversy, and the Iranian Revolution.
Furthermore, she and another journalist co-hosted the newsmagazine Midday, which was generated by her, from 1984 to 1985. She was well-known for her expertise, intelligence, and charm.
In 1981, Suzanne Perry was chosen to be Pierre Trudeau’s press secretary, making her the first woman to ever take on the role. Her duties included managing the Prime Minister’s media relations, public appearances, speeches, and communications plan. She was also one of Trudeau’s most trusted advisors.
She was an active supporter of his political efforts and initiatives, playing a key role in furthering his mission of establishing Canada as a bilingual, multicultural, and constitutionally recognized nation. She joined him on his international travels, including to China, India, Cuba, and France.
Suzanne Perry created a strong bond with Trudeau and his family, particularly his sons, Justin and Alexandre. She was esteemed by other political figures, reporters, and ambassadors for her skill, honesty, and dedication.
In 1984, upon Trudeau’s retirement from politics, she stepped down from her post as press secretary. Over the next 16 years, until Trudeau’s passing in 2000, she kept in contact with him.
Personal Life
Suzanne Perry has been a bride twice in her lifetime. Her first husband was John Bennett Perry, a well-known actor, vocalist, and ex-model. They encountered each other in Los Angeles in 1967 and tied the knot in September 1968. They had a son, Matthew Perry, who was born on the 19th of August, 1969.
Suzanne and John’s marriage ended in divorce in 1970, and Suzanne relocated to Canada with Matthew. As a single mother, she was wholly supportive of her son’s acting ambitions and motivated him to work towards achieving his dreams.
She tied the knot with Canadian broadcast journalist Keith Morrison in 1981. They had initially met in Ottawa in 1980 while both were employed by CBC. Together, they have four children – Willy, Caitlin, Emily and Madeleine Morrison. Keith Morrison currently works as a correspondent for Dateline NBC.
Suzanne Perry’s Net Worth
As of 2023, it is estimated that Suzanne Perry has amassed a net worth of $11 million, which she has accumulated through her highly successful career as a journalist, writer, consultant, and political fundraiser.
Additionally, she has inherited a substantial sum from her family’s wealth, allowing her to live a lavish lifestyle with her husband Keith Morrison in a luxurious mansion in Los Angeles. The couple has also invested in properties in Canada and other nations.
