Matthew Perry’s live-in personal assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa, has been sentenced to three years and five months in federal prison for his central role in the late actor’s ketamine-related death, bringing a tragic and high-profile case to a close. Iwamasa pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine causing death after months of investigation and courtroom proceedings revealed his involvement in repeatedly injecting Perry with fatal doses of the powerful anesthetic.
According to court documents, Iwamasa used his position of trust to secure ketamine from unauthorized sources and administer it to Perry, despite being fully aware of the significant risks associated with the drug—especially in light of Perry’s history of substance abuse and health struggles. Prosecutors argued that his actions went far beyond negligence, amounting to criminal recklessness and a gross violation of his professional responsibilities.
During the trial, testimony from medical experts highlighted the dangers of ketamine misuse, particularly in unsupervised or non-medical settings. It was revealed that Perry had been under the impression he was receiving therapeutic treatments, but the improper administration and lack of medical oversight proved disastrous.
The sentencing judge described Iwamasa’s conduct as “deeply irresponsible and a tragic betrayal of trust,” emphasizing the preventable nature of Perry’s death. The court also acknowledged the devastating impact the loss has had on Perry’s friends, family, and legions of fans worldwide.
In his statement before sentencing, Iwamasa expressed remorse for his actions, apologizing to Perry’s loved ones and taking responsibility for his role in the circumstances that led to the actor’s death. His defense cited his lack of criminal history and the complex pressures associated with working for a high-profile individual, but the court maintained that the gravity of his actions warranted a significant custodial sentence.
Matthew Perry achieved global fame for his iconic portrayal of Chandler Bing on the legendary sitcom Friends (1994–2004). Beyond his television success, he built an impressive film career, excelling especially in romantic and crime comedies.
Kenneth Iwamasa worked for Matthew Perry for several years, becoming his full-time, live-in assistant in 2022. However, the two had known each other for decades, initially connecting in approximately 1992 and Iwamasa was earning $150,000 per year in the role. Kenneth Iwamasa grew up in Midland, Texas. Prior to the federal case regarding the actor’s death, Iwamasa resided in the Toluca Lake neighborhood of the San Fernando Valley in Los Angeles, California
