Hollywood personal assistants face challenging roles and risks

Working as a personal assistant in Hollywood can seem glamorous, but it often involves long hours, blurred boundaries, and a lack of protection from the whims of powerful employers. The case of Kenneth Iwamasa, who pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute ketamine causing death in connection with Matthew Perry's overdose, highlights the precarious position assistants can find themselves in. Many industry veterans empathize with Iwamasa, recognizing the power imbalance that leaves assistants vulnerable to their employers' demands. The emotional toll of the job is significant, as assistants often become enmeshed in the narcissism of their bosses, losing their sense of self. Rowena Chiu, a former assistant to Harvey Weinstein, articulated the double bind faced by assistants: they hold substantial responsibility but possess little power. This dynamic can lead to situations where assistants feel compelled to comply with dangerous or unethical requests. Historically, it is rare for assistants to face legal repercussions, even when their employers are involved in criminal activities. Examples include Michael Jackson's last assistant, who was not present during the singer's fatal overdose, and Phil Spector's assistant, who avoided legal trouble despite being close to a murder case. These instances illustrate the often precarious and complex nature of the assistant role in high-stakes environments. Ultimately, many former assistants describe their experiences as nearly impossible, requiring them to navigate a challenging landscape where they must prove their worth while feeling disposable. This reality raises questions about the treatment of personal assistants in the entertainment industry and the need for better protections and boundaries.