The recent arrest of five individuals in connection with the overdose death of actor Matthew Perry has sent shockwaves through Hollywood. Among those arrested were a local physician, Perry’s live-in assistant, and Erik Fleming, who was described by the Department of Justice as a drug dealer and charged as a middleman in the deadly ketamine scheme.
According to the DOJ, Fleming coordinated with Perry’s assistant and Jasveen Sangha, known as the “Ketamine Queen,” to facilitate the drug sales. Four days before Perry’s tragic death, Fleming informed the assistant that the ketamine was on its way to Sangha. Fleming, 54, has since pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine and distribution resulting in death. He faces up to 25 years in his federal case.
Fleming’s background in Hollywood adds another layer of intrigue to this case. He was once a director and producer, working on projects such as the children’s fantasy comedy “My Brother the Pig” starring Scarlett Johansson and Eva Mendes. He also produced the first season of reality show “The Surreal Life” in 2003, featuring celebrities like Cory Feldman and MC Hammer. Fleming’s involvement in the entertainment industry extends to directing and producing films like “Tyrone” starring Coolio and Kevin Connolly.
In addition to his work in film and television, Fleming co-ran the production company Rich Hippie with Sydney Holland, one of Sumner Redstone’s live-in girlfriends. Redstone reportedly funded Rich Hippie, with Fleming becoming president of production in 2013. Despite Holland’s praise for Fleming’s creative vision and extensive contacts, Rich Hippie failed to produce many successful projects. Their most notable venture, a film about a Native American community’s struggle with drug culture, had a limited release and minimal box office success.
The connection between Fleming’s past in Hollywood and his current involvement in the ketamine scheme adds a layer of complexity to this already tragic story. As the investigation into Matthew Perry’s death continues, the role of each individual involved will undoubtedly come to light. The impact of these arrests on the entertainment industry and Hollywood as a whole remains to be seen.
