Being a celebrity’s personal assistant may seem glamorous from the outside, but the reality is often far from it. The recent case of Kenny Iwamasa, late Matthew Perry’s personal assistant, sheds light on the dark and sometimes dangerous side of this profession. On October 28 last year, Iwamasa injected Perry with ketamine at the actor’s request, leading to Perry’s tragic death. This shocking incident has brought to the forefront the challenges and ethical dilemmas faced by those who work closely with celebrities.
The responsibilities of a celebrity’s personal assistant can be extensive and sometimes questionable. Injecting illegal drugs into your employer’s bloodstream, sharing a bed with them, or keeping quiet about inappropriate behavior are just some of the tasks that may be expected of an assistant. In the case of Iwamasa, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine after Perry’s death, highlighting the blurred lines and ethical challenges faced by those in this role.
Merryl Futerman, a former celebrity assistant and author, understands the complexities of being a personal assistant to a high-profile individual. He acknowledges that it can be difficult to say no to your employer, especially when they are a powerful figure like Matthew Perry. The pressure to fulfill their demands, no matter how questionable, can be overwhelming. In a world where discretion and loyalty are paramount, assistants like Iwamasa may find themselves in compromising situations.
The mix of glamour and guilt that comes with being a celebrity’s personal assistant is a common theme in Hollywood. While assistants may enjoy perks like luxury travel and access to exclusive events, they also face the constant demands and sometimes abusive behavior of their employers. Rowena Chiu’s harrowing experience with Harvey Weinstein serves as a stark reminder of the dark side of this industry, where assistants may be subjected to harassment and abuse.
Setting boundaries and maintaining ethical standards can be a challenge for celebrity assistants. Bonnie Low-Kramen, who worked with Olympia Dukakis, emphasizes the importance of mutual respect and discretion in this role. However, some celebrities may push these boundaries by asking assistants to engage in unethical or intrusive tasks. The test of loyalty can be extreme, as assistants are expected to go to great lengths to please their employers.
The case of Kenny Iwamasa serves as a cautionary tale for those considering a career as a celebrity assistant. The allure of working closely with stars may come with a high price, both professionally and personally. As legal disputes and ethical dilemmas continue to plague the industry, it is essential for assistants to prioritize their own well-being and set boundaries to protect themselves from potential harm. Celebrity assistants must navigate a complex and often treacherous landscape, where loyalty and discretion can sometimes come at a steep cost.
