Charlie Puth moved fans at his concert with a wholehearted piano performance honoring Matthew Perry following his tragic death on Saturday.
At his Melbourne, Australia show over the weekend, the Grammy-nominated singer told his audience that his song was devoted to someone specific before proceeding to play the tune of the “Friends” theme song.
“I want to dedicate this song to another song and if that makes you think if it makes you think of a person that’s who it’s dedicated to,” Puth said at the Margaret Court Arena. “Does this mean anything to you?”
Puth nailed the rendition of The Rembrandts’ “I’ll Be There for You” joining the audience as they collectively sang “Because you’re there for me too.”
How many are feeling:Matthew Perry once said his death would ‘shock’ but not ‘surprise’ people.
He quickly transitioned to “See You Again,” his 2015 hit collaboration with Wiz Khalifa dedicated to Paul Walker.
Fans react on social media: ‘It was beautiful’
Fans rejoiced at Puth’s transition and successful set.
Social media also applauded the tribute online with one X (formerly Twitter) user saying they would “be on the floor sobbing” if they were at the show.
“My love Charlie Puth paid tribute to Matthew Perry at his concert today during his tour and it was beautiful,” another X user posted.
Police said Perry was found dead in a jacuzzi at his Los Angeles home, according to TMZ, NBC News and the Los Angeles Times.
Remembering the iconic actor:Why Matthew Perry was ‘Friends’ with all of us
Perry was best known for his iconic role as Chandler Bing on the classic sitcom, which ran from from 1994 to 2004, along with roles in films like “17 Again” and “Fools Rush In.”
Puth has previously expressed his admiration for Perry on the series including when he said he has been told he is similar to the beloved character.
“I could play Chandler’s long lost son,” Puth told E! News in a 2021 interview. “People think that I am very similar to him.”