Matthew Perry’s former assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa, has been sentenced in connection with the actor’s 2023 ketamine overdose death. Iwamasa, 59, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute ketamine, admitting he repeatedly injected Perry with the drug without medical training. The sentencing follows a victim impact statement from Perry’s mother, Suzanne Morrison, who condemned Iwamasa for enabling her son’s addiction.
Core Facts and Developments
- Sentencing of Kenneth Iwamasa: Iwamasa, who pleaded guilty in August 2024, admitted to injecting Perry with ketamine multiple times before his death. He is the first of five individuals charged in the case to be sentenced, with his hearing scheduled for May 27.
- Mother’s Emotional Statement: Morrison described her son’s death as a preventable tragedy, stating that Iwamasa failed to protect Perry from his addiction. She recalled seeing her son’s body in the morgue and the childhood nicknames they shared.
Deeper Dive and Context
The Role of Ketamine in Perry’s Death
Perry, 54, died after being found unresponsive in his hot tub on October 28, 2023. An autopsy confirmed his death was caused by an accidental ketamine overdose. Perry had been undergoing ketamine infusion therapy for anxiety and depression but later developed a dependence on the drug. Prosecutors allege that Iwamasa conspired with others, including Jasveen Sangha, Erik Fleming, and Dr. Salvador Plasencia, to supply Perry with illegal ketamine.
Legal and Emotional Fallout
Morrison’s victim impact statement painted a heartbreaking picture of her son’s final moments and her grief. She described Perry as “Matso” and “Manew,” childhood names he used for her. The statement underscores the emotional toll of the case, which has drawn attention to the dangers of unregulated ketamine use and the responsibilities of those close to individuals struggling with addiction.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
Iwamasa’s sentencing is part of a broader legal case involving multiple individuals accused of supplying Perry with ketamine. The case has raised questions about the oversight of ketamine therapy and the role of personal assistants in managing the health of high-profile individuals. The remaining defendants are expected to face trial in the coming months.