Anita Verma-Lallian, a real estate developer and film producer of Indian origin, recently purchased the Los Angeles residence that once belonged to beloved Friends star Matthew Perry. Acquired for $8.55 million, the Pacific Palisades property holds a sentimental place in Hollywood, as it was where Perry lived and was later found deceased in 2023. Verma-Lallian, who shared glimpses of the home and a video on Instagram, expressed deep admiration for the property’s unique features, particularly its breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, which immediately drew her to it.
In her Instagram post, 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.” She credits her agent, Brooke Elliott Laurinkus, for introducing her to this exceptional off-market listing.
In a nod to her cultural traditions, Verma-Lallian held a puja, or Hindu blessing ceremony, at the house shortly after moving in. She explained that the ceremony was part of her customary practice whenever acquiring a new property. “As a Hindu, it’s customary to do a blessing and prayer anytime you buy a new home. We were so lucky to have our Panditji from Arizona come to the house to do the blessing,” she noted. Verma-Lallian emphasized that her decision to purchase the house was based purely on her appreciation for its aesthetic and design, not due to its previous association with the late actor.
Sensitive to the home’s history, she shared her approach to honoring Perry’s legacy. “We chose 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 said.
Built in 1965, the 3,500-square-foot property stands on 0.4 acres and offers a serene escape with its ocean views and distinctive design elements, which Verma-Lallian plans to preserve. She intends to keep the quirky Batman logo embedded in the pool a feature that adds a unique charm to the space. She describes the house as a “piece of paradise” that will serve as an ideal vacation retreat for her family.
Matthew Perry, known for his portrayal of Chandler Bing on Friends, acquired the property in 2020 for $6 million and invested in extensive renovations, adding his personal touch. Tragically, Perry passed away in October 2023 due to “acute effects” of ketamine and other substances, which reportedly caused him to lose consciousness and drown in his hot tub.
For Verma-Lallian, however, the home’s significance lies in its architectural beauty and serene location, serving as a new chapter where she and her family can create their own memories.
