Perry’s Silent Struggle

Matthew Perry’s stepfather, Keith Morrison, believed that the Friends star had a handle on his ketamine use before his tragic death at age 54. Morrison shared his thoughts during an interview on Today on October 28, one year after Perry’s passing.

“It appeared to us as if he was [sober],” said Morrison, 77, reflecting on the challenges Perry faced. While Morrison thought Perry was managing his treatment, Perry's mother, Suzanne Morrison, expressed doubt by shaking her head silently beside him. Keith then asked, “Not to you?” acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding Perry’s battle.

Keith Morrison explained that although Perry had been using ketamine for treatment, he believed his stepson had not lost control. “He was a guy who would make decisions. ‘I can handle this. I know what the drug will do to me.’ So, there was always the concern: ‘What’s he really doing?’” Keith admitted. Despite these concerns, the family had hoped Perry's treatment wouldn’t become overwhelming.

In December 2023, Perry’s toxicology report revealed that drowning was also a contributing factor in his death. He was discovered in the hot tub of his Los Angeles home. At the time, he was reportedly undergoing unsupervised ketamine treatment for anxiety and depression.

“I don’t even know if in his mind, he had relapsed,” Perry’s half-sister, Madeleine Morrison, shared, echoing the complex emotions surrounding his passing.

Since Perry’s death, five individuals connected to the case have been arrested and charged. His former assistant, Kenneth Iwamasa, and Dr. Mark Chavez have pleaded guilty, while others, including the notorious "Ketamine Queen" Jasveen Sangha, face trial.

Keith Morrison, reflecting on the legal proceedings, said, “What I’m hoping is that the people supplying dangerous drugs will finally be held accountable.”

While the family continues to grieve, they have found purpose in helping others through the Matthew Perry Foundation, which supports those battling addiction. Keith emphasized that their loss, while high-profile, reflects a broader epidemic. “Millions of people have had that loss,” he said. “It’s a hurting world and it needs some help.”