Matthew Perry's Family Speaks Out: Betrayal and Heartbreak Ahead of Assistant's Sentencing

Family's Emotional Statement Before Sentencing

In a poignant statement, the family of Matthew Perry has voiced their feelings as they await the sentencing of his long-time assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa. Perry's half-sisters, Caitlin and Madeline Morrison, have accused Iwamasa of betraying the trust of the beloved FRIENDS star and misleading the family following his tragic death due to a substance-related incident. The actor was found unresponsive in his Los Angeles home on October 28, 2023, having drowned in a jacuzzi after consuming a lethal amount of a substance. Iwamasa, who had worked closely with Perry for many years, is scheduled to be sentenced on May 27 after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute a substance that resulted in death. Prosecutors are seeking a prison sentence of 41 months.

Sisters Describe the Pain of Betrayal

Sisters claim betrayal of a 25-year-old relationship

Prior to the sentencing, Caitlin and Madeline Morrison shared their emotional turmoil in court documents, revealing the distress they felt upon learning of Iwamasa's involvement in Perry's overdose. They had placed immense trust in him, viewing him as more than just an employee. Madeline expressed, "It felt like losing my brother all over again," highlighting how the initial information about Perry's death later appeared misleading after investigators revealed the truth about the events that transpired in his home.

Iwamasa reportedly told the Department of Justice that he had administered a substance to Perry multiple times without any medical training. Authorities allege he provided several injections on the day of the actor's death.

Allegations of Negligence

Kenneth Iwamasa 'left him to perish in hot tub'

The sisters painted a troubling picture of events following Matthew Perry's death. Madeline recalled visiting his home shortly after to select burial attire and noticed Iwamasa acting nervously, repeatedly recounting his version of events without being prompted. She suspects his behavior was an attempt to hide the truth, stating that he administered a dangerous dose of a substance to Perry and then left him unattended in the hot tub where he was later discovered. This revelation was particularly painful for the family, especially since Iwamasa had delivered a eulogy at Perry’s funeral. "It was difficult to process that moment," Madeline reflected. "It altered the final memories of the family bidding farewell to the cherished actor."

Mother's Heartfelt Statement

Mother Suzanne Morrison's statement

Perry's mother, Suzanne Morrison, also provided a statement to the court, expressing her gratitude to the investigators and the judge for their dedication to uncovering the truth. However, she emphasized that no legal outcome could truly bring closure to a grieving parent. She pointed out that Iwamasa's primary responsibility was to assist Perry in maintaining his sobriety and protecting his recovery journey.

Ongoing Investigation into Perry's Death

More on investigation into Matthew Perry's death

Several individuals have been charged in connection with Perry's overdose, including medical professionals and alleged drug suppliers. Prosecutors claim that this group unlawfully provided the actor with substances in the weeks leading up to his death.

One defendant, Jasveen Sangha, known in media as the "Ketamine Queen," was sentenced earlier this year after pleading guilty to various drug-related charges linked to the case. As Iwamasa’s sentencing approaches, Matthew Perry's family continues to grapple with their grief. Madeline expressed hope that one day she can remember her brother for his humor, warmth, and joyful spirit, rather than the tragic circumstances surrounding his death.