Matthew Perry’s Assistant Sentenced to 41 Months Over Fatal Ketamine Overdose

Kenneth Iwamasa, the long-time personal assistant to the late actor Matthew Perry, has been sentenced to 41 months in federal prison. The sentencing follows Iwamasa’s guilty plea to a conspiracy charge related to the distribution of ketamine, which resulted in the actor’s fatal overdose in October 2023. Iwamasa, who had served as Perry’s live-in assistant since 2022, admitted to repeatedly injecting the actor with the substance, including the final dose that led to his death.

This sentencing marks the conclusion of a high-profile legal investigation, as Iwamasa is the fifth and final defendant to be held accountable in connection with the case. The Department of Justice’s prosecution highlights the severe legal consequences for individuals who facilitate the illicit acquisition and administration of controlled substances, even within the context of personal employment relationships.

The resolution of this case serves as a somber reminder of the risks associated with the misuse of prescription-grade substances and the legal liabilities faced by those in positions of trust. By holding staff members criminally responsible for their role in a client's substance abuse, the court has set a significant precedent regarding accountability in celebrity support circles. The conclusion of these proceedings closes a tragic chapter that has deeply impacted the entertainment industry and the global fan base of the beloved 'Friends' star.