The late Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay’s legacy is now marred by a shocking revelation of hidden addiction. A new investigation by The Washington Post, published August 28, 2025, uncovers Irsay’s secret relapse into substance abuse, including ketamine use, during the final two years of his life. This period was punctuated by multiple overdoses and a deliberate effort by Irsay and team executives to conceal his struggles from the public eye. The revelation casts a stark shadow over the narrative of transparency Irsay championed through his “Kicking the Stigma” charity, a foundation dedicated to promoting openness about mental illness and addiction.
Irsay’s Secret Relapse: Key Players and Events
Who Was Involved?
The central figure in this unfolding narrative is Jim Irsay, the owner and CEO of the Indianapolis Colts, who passed away in May 2025 at the age of 65. According to The Washington Post investigation, Dr. Harry Haroutunian, described as a “luxury” recovery doctor, is implicated for prescribing Irsay opioids and ketamine. Colts executives are also noted for their alleged role in concealing Irsay’s relapse from public scrutiny. Irsay’s three daughters, Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson, who now co-own the team, have released a statement defending their father’s legacy in light of these disturbing revelations.
What Actually Happened?
Despite publicly advocating for honesty in battling addiction, Irsay privately relapsed, consuming opioid pills and receiving ketamine injections. The Washington Post‘s investigation, drawing upon interviews and medical records, indicates that Irsay experienced at least three overdoses in his final five years. The first occurred in February 2020 in Turks and Caicos. The other two happened in December 2023, one at his home in suburban Indianapolis and another at a beachfront resort near Miami. His death in May 2025 at the Beverly Hills Hotel was officially attributed to cardiac arrest due to pneumonia and heart issues by Dr. Haroutunian, who signed the death certificate. Notably, no autopsy or toxicology testing was performed, raising serious questions about the true cause of death and whether drugs played a significant role.
Timeline of Events
Irsay’s secret relapse reportedly spanned the last two years of his life, culminating in his death in May 2025. The documented overdoses occurred in February 2020 and twice in December 2023. The Washington Post published its investigative report on August 28, 2025, bringing these hidden struggles to light.
Where Did This Occur?
The incidents of overdose and treatment unfolded across various locations. Irsay overdosed in Turks and Caicos in 2020, and in December 2023, incidents occurred at his home in suburban Indianapolis and a resort near Miami. He also received private treatment at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis. His death occurred at the Beverly Hills Hotel.
The “Why” Behind the Secrecy
Irsay had a well-documented, lifelong battle with substance abuse, having openly discussed attending rehab on multiple occasions. While he established the “Kicking the Stigma” foundation to promote openness around mental illness and addiction, he reportedly kept his own relapses hidden. The investigation suggests that Dr. Haroutunian prescribed opioids and later ketamine in quantities that concerned those close to Irsay. The efforts to conceal his declining health from the public appear to have been an attempt to protect his image and the Colts organization. This secrecy also raises ethical questions about the responsibilities of those around him, including medical professionals and team executives.
Impact and Aftermath of the Revelation
Contradictory Narratives
The Washington Post‘s exposé has ignited a public conversation about the circumstances surrounding Irsay’s death and the lack of transparency within high-profile organizations regarding addiction. The report directly contradicts previous public statements from Irsay and the Colts about his health, which often cited severe respiratory illness or back surgery for his hospitalizations. The absence of an autopsy or toxicology report further fuels speculation and demands for greater accountability.
The Family’s Response
Irsay’s daughters have acknowledged their father’s battles but emphasized his efforts to reduce stigma. Their statement highlights his commitment to helping others struggling with addiction, even as he privately battled his own demons. However, the revelations inevitably taint his legacy and raise questions about the authenticity of his public persona.
Lingering Questions and Calls for Accountability
The report raises critical questions about accountability for those who may have enabled Irsay’s hidden addiction, including medical professionals and team executives. It also underscores the need for greater scrutiny in cases of high-profile deaths where substance abuse is suspected. Furthermore, it prompts a broader discussion about the pressures and expectations placed on individuals in positions of power, and the potential consequences of concealing personal struggles from the public.
Ketamine Use Under Scrutiny
The specific mention of ketamine use in Irsay’s treatment raises additional concerns. While ketamine has legitimate medical applications, particularly in treating depression, its use in addiction recovery is controversial and requires careful monitoring. The investigation suggests that the quantities prescribed by Dr. Haroutunian were a source of concern for those close to Irsay, raising questions about the appropriateness and oversight of his medical care. According to The Washington Post, concerns were raised internally about the levels of ketamine being administered.
Conclusion
The investigation into Jim Irsay’s final years reveals a stark contrast between his public advocacy and private struggles. The Washington Post’s report, backed by interviews and medical records, paints a troubling picture of hidden addiction, multiple overdoses, and a concerted effort to conceal the truth. While Irsay’s daughters defend his legacy and commitment to reducing stigma, the revelations inevitably tarnish his image and raise critical questions about accountability and transparency within the NFL. This incident serves as a potent reminder of the complexities of addiction, even among those who champion the cause of recovery.
