LOS ANGELES — Kenneth Iwamasa, who was Matthew Perry’s personal assistant, was sentenced to three years and five months in federal prison for his role in the actor’s death. Perry passed away in October 2023 from a ketamine overdose in his hot tub.
Besides serving time, Iwamasa was ordered to pay a $10,000 fine. He must report to authorities by noon on July 17. At 59, he is the last of the five people charged in connection with Perry’s death.
Judge Sherilyn Peace Garnett’s sentence was lighter than what Perry’s half-sister, Madeline Morrison, had hoped for. Morrison expressed deep disappointment, stating that Iwamasa deserved a harsher penalty than Jasveen Sangha. Sangha, known as the “Ketamine Queen,” was sentenced in April to 15 years in prison for supplying the drugs.
In her statement, Morrison reflected on Iwamasa’s betrayal. She noted that he had even spoken at Perry’s funeral, a moment that felt like a cruel joke to her. “He didn’t just take my brother’s life; he tainted our final memories together,” she said.
In August 2024, Iwamasa pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine, admitting to repeatedly injecting Perry, despite lacking any medical training. His defense argued that he believed he was helping Perry manage his anxiety and depression, which had become problematic.
Perry, 54, died after being found face down in his hot tub. The initial investigation showed he had struggled with addiction, particularly after undergoing several treatments for mental health issues. Ketamine, while being explored as a treatment for depression, can be risky when misused.
Statistics show the opioid epidemic in the U.S. has been worsening. According to the CDC, nearly 70,000 people died from synthetic opioid overdoses in 2021 alone. Many experts urge stricter regulations on prescription drugs and more focus on mental health care options.
Morrison emphasized that Iwamasa’s primary responsibility was to ensure Perry remained drug-free. Instead, she accused him of facilitating drug use. Perry’s mother, Suzanne Morrison, echoed this sentiment, stating that Iwamasa had enabled her son’s addiction.
Perry’s struggle with drugs and mental health is not unique in Hollywood. Many celebrities battle similar issues, leading to calls for more systemic changes in the industry. Fans have reacted strongly on social media, advocating for better support systems for actors dealing with addiction.
Iwamasa’s case reflects broader issues surrounding drug dependency and responsibility. As communities grapple with addiction, the conversation continues about how to prevent tragedies like Perry’s from happening again.
For more insights on the effects of ketamine and mental health, check out resources from Yale Medicine.
