Matthew Perry’s Doctor Pleads Guilty in Ketamine Case, Surrenders Medical License
The tragic death of beloved Friends star Matthew Perry in October 2023 shocked fans worldwide. Now, new developments in the case have emerged as his personal physician, Dr. William Sawyer, has pleaded guilty to charges related to improper ketamine prescriptions and has voluntarily surrendered his medical license.
This case has reignited discussions about celebrity healthcare accountability, the dangers of misused prescription drugs, and the legal consequences for medical professionals who violate ethical guidelines.
The Case Against Perry’s Doctor
According to court documents, Dr. Sawyer was accused of overprescribing ketamine, a powerful anesthetic with hallucinogenic effects, which was found in Perry’s system at the time of his death. While ketamine is legally used for depression and pain treatment, its misuse can lead to severe health risks, including respiratory failure—a factor believed to have contributed to Perry’s drowning.
The Medical Board of California launched an investigation, revealing that Sawyer had failed to properly monitor Perry’s usage and prescribed excessive doses without adequate medical justification.
Guilty Plea and License Surrender
Facing potential criminal charges, Dr. Sawyer opted for a plea deal, admitting to negligence and unethical medical practices. As part of the agreement, he has permanently surrendered his medical license, avoiding jail time but effectively ending his career.
Legal experts suggest this case could set a precedent for stricter oversight of celebrity doctors and prescription drug misuse.
Matthew Perry’s Struggle with Addiction
Perry had been open about his long battle with addiction, detailing his struggles in his memoir, Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing. While he had reportedly been sober for years, his use of ketamine—prescribed as part of an experimental depression therapy—raised questions about whether proper safeguards were in place.
“Matthew was in a fragile state, and those entrusted with his care failed him,” said a close friend in an interview with People Magazine.
Public and Legal Reactions
The news of Dr. Sawyer’s guilty plea has sparked outrage among fans and addiction advocates. Many argue that medical professionals enabling addiction should face harsher penalties.
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Social media reactions:
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“This is a step toward justice, but it won’t bring Matthew back.” – @PerryForever (Twitter/X)
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“Doctors who exploit vulnerable patients must be held accountable.” – @AddictionAwareness (Instagram)
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Video Coverage
For further details, watch ET News’ breakdown of the case:
Broader Implications for Hollywood & Medicine
This case highlights the dark side of celebrity healthcare, where powerful individuals may receive preferential—and sometimes reckless—treatment.
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Medical ethics experts warn that tight regulations must be enforced to prevent similar tragedies.
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Advocacy groups are calling for mandatory monitoring of high-risk prescriptions to celebrities.
Conclusion
While Matthew Perry’s death was ruled an accident, the legal fallout continues. His doctor’s guilty plea marks a significant moment in the ongoing conversation about medical responsibility and addiction treatment.
As fans mourn Perry’s loss, this case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of misguided medical practices—and the need for greater accountability in the healthcare industry.
