Matthew Perry's Assistant Sentenced to Over Three Years for Involvement in Actor's Ketamine Death

Kenneth Iwamasa, the personal assistant of late actor Matthew Perry, has been sentenced to over three years in prison for his role in Perry's ketamine overdose. The sentencing concluded a lengthy legal process involving multiple parties implicated in the actor's tragic death.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Los Angeles | Updated: 28-05-2026 03:51 IST | Created: 28-05-2026 03:51 IST
Matthew Perry's Assistant Sentenced to Over Three Years for Involvement in Actor's Ketamine Death
Late actor Matthew Perry (File photo/Reuters)
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Kenneth Iwamasa, former assistant to the late 'Friends' star Matthew Perry, received a prison sentence of three years and five months. His involvement in Perry's ketamine overdose marked the conclusion of a legal case that highlighted his pivotal role in the actor's addiction.

The legal proceedings saw debates over workplace boundaries and responsibilities. Iwamasa's lawyer argued for leniency, suggesting a lighter sentence due to the dynamics between Perry and Iwamasa. However, the court emphasized Iwamasa's recklessness and his failure to refuse his employer's demands, which were central to the case.

Perry's family expressed their profound trust in Iwamasa, considering him as part of the family who betrayed that trust. The judge acknowledged the absence of malicious intent but pointed out Iwamasa's lack of action which culminated in Perry's loss.

Iwamasa, hired in 2022 with a salary of $150,000, initially misled investigators but later admitted guilt in a conspiracy to distribute ketamine, contributing to Perry's death. Despite his public apology, the sentence underscored the serious consequences of his actions.

(With inputs from agencies.)

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