The cast of Friends say they are “utterly devastated” by the death of their co-star Matthew Perry.

Best known for playing witty and sarcastic Chandler Bing on the hit US sitcom, Perry died aged 54 on Saturday.

He rose to fame alongside his fellow stars of the American sitcom – Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Matt LeBlanc, Lisa Kudrow and David Schwimmer.

In a statement released to People magazine on Monday, his former co-stars said: “We are all so utterly devastated by the loss of Matthew.

“We were more than just castmates. We are a family.

“There is so much to say, but right now we’re going to take a moment to grieve and process this unfathomable loss.”

They added: “In time we will say more, as and when we are able. For now, our thoughts and our love are with Matty’s family, his friends, and everyone who loved him around the world.”

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

The actor was found dead at his Los Angeles home, according to coroner’s records, and an investigation into how he died is ongoing, with the possibility of it taking weeks before a cause of death is determined.

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

“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.”

Perry is being mourned by fans worldwide, including some who placed flowers and heartfelt tributes outside the New York building that served as an exterior for the show.

with AP