On May 16th 1984, unique comedy talent, Andy Kaufman, died from a rare form of lung cancer at just 35 years of age. Renowned for his eccentric stage routines and comedy sketches on the TV show ‘Saturday Night Live’ he went on to gain international fame playing ‘Latka’ the goofy mechanic in the 70’s sitcom ‘Taxi’. A master of invention, he told friends he was going to fake his own death, leading some to believe he did not die. In this episode, expert Coroner and Forensic Pathologist, Dr. Michael Hunter, examines Andy Kaufman’s medical history to try and discover what caused the death of this comic phenomenon at such a young age.

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Rick James, the flamboyant funk star, was found deceased by his housekeeper, stunning the music world. His troubled life took a darker turn in 1991 when he was convicted of kidnapping and torture, resulting in a prison sentence.

The life and death of Christopher John Cornell, best known as the lead vocalist for the Soundgarden and Audioslave.

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Garry Shandling's sudden death at 66 surprised his fans and the entertainment industry. Throughout his career, he received over 60 awards or nominations, including Emmys, for his self-analytical and self-deprecating humor.

After departing from WWE, Chyna's life spiraled downward due to drug and alcohol abuse, leading to infamy. Following a mysterious four-year exile in Japan, she returned to the US with the intention of reinventing herself.

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Florence Henderson, best known as Carol Brady on The Brady Bunch, passed away on November 24, 2016, at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles at the age of 82. She had been hospitalized the day before. According to her manager, Kayla Pressman, Henderson died of heart failure. Three days before her death, Henderson had attended the recording of Dancing with the Stars to support her friend and former on-screen daughter Maureen McCormick, who was a contestant. Pressman stated that Henderson's death was a shock as she was not ill prior to her sudden hospitalization.

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Muhammad Ali was one of the greatest boxers the world has ever known. Over a career spanning 21 years he became the heavyweight champion of the world an incredible three times. But on June 3, 2016 Muhammed Ali died after a long battle with Parkinson’s. But Parkinson’s is not fatal. So what killed him? Some believe Muhammad Ali fought for too long. Now, forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter is reexamining the case to see what brought about the end of this one world-class athlete.

In April 1994, the twenty seven year old musician and self styled prince of grunge, Kurt Cobain was found dead at his Seattle mansion with a gunshot wound to his head. A suicide note was found at the scene and the police quickly concluded that Kurt had taken his own life. But for more than twenty years controversy has raged over the cause of Kurt’s death with many claiming he had too much heroin in his system to have shot himself. Expert Coroner and Forensic Pathologist, Dr. Michael Hunter has examined all the available medical evidence and with testimony from family and friends to finally reveal the real cause of Kurt Cobain’s death.

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Maurice Gibb was one third of global mega band, The Bee Gees. In a career spanning four decades, they sold over 220 million records. They were best known for their disco classics, high pitched singing voices, and boufant hairstyles. Whilst his brothers sang lead vocals, Maurice was the hidden talent that held the band together, considered by insiders to be the musical director. But on Wednesday January 8th, 2003, Maurice Gibb collapsed in agony at his Miami home. He died 4 days later, aged just 53. According to witnesses Maurice Gibb’s death came out of nowhere. So why Maurice went from healthy to collapse to death in 4 days is a mystery. Now forensic examiner Dr. Michael Hunter investigates the forensic evidence.

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Forensic Pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter investigates the death of beloved actor Bill Bixby, known for captivating TV roles. Born in 1934 as Wilfred Bailey Everett Bixby III, he adopted the stage name Bill Bixby, finding success in sitcoms and dramas. His role as Dr. David Bruce Banner in 'The Incredible Hulk' cemented his legacy. Bixby also directed episodes of various shows, showcasing dedication to the craft. His friendly demeanor and talent endeared him to fans and colleagues. Bixby's passing in 1993 at age 59 left a significant mark on entertainment.

On April 26th, 1989, Lucille Ball passed away in a Los Angeles hospital, devastating fans worldwide. Her iconic career, highlighted by the groundbreaking show 'I Love Lucy,' made her a global sensation. Despite being in great health just weeks prior, the 77-year-old actress succumbed to a rare aortic rupture. Forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter delves into Ball's medical records, death certificate, and personal accounts to unravel the mystery behind her sudden and tragic death.

Corey Haim was the poster boy of 1980’s Hollywood, starring in “The Lost Boys”, “Lucas”, and “License to Drive.” Forensic Pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter examines Corey’s autopsy report to dispel the rumors, and reveal the real cause of the actor’s tragic and untimely death at the age of 38.

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Christopher Reeve, known for his iconic role as Superman, passed away on October 10th, 2004, prompting worldwide mourning. Following a paralyzing horse riding accident in 1995, Reeve became a symbol of resilience and advocacy for the disabled community. Despite initial reports citing heart failure as the cause of death, conflicting accounts, including a potential allergic reaction to a drug, emerged. Forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter delves into Reeve's life, utilizing reports and firsthand information to uncover the truth behind the circumstances surrounding the passing of America's Superman.

John Denver was a legendary singer songwriter whose talent for writing and performing hit singles made him a global superstar. From ‘Country Roads’ to ‘Rocky Mountain High’ to ‘Annie’s Song’ by the mid 70s he was one of America's biggest selling artists. He wrote around 200 songs and sold over 35 million albums. But on the afternoon of the 12th October 1997, experienced pilot John Denver crashed his plane into the Pacific Ocean. This unexplained disaster fuelled rumour and speculation and the investigation was fraught with difficulties as only fragments of John Denver’s plane and parts of his body were recovered from the sea. Now renowned forensic pathologist Dr Michael Hunter is reopening the case into John Denver’s mysterious death.

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Forensic pathologists analyzes the final hours of Telly Savalas.

Dale Earnhardt, the "Intimidator" of NASCAR, won seven championships with his aggressive driving style before fatally crashing at the 2001 Daytona 500, prompting major safety improvements in the sport.

American comedy icon Gilda Radner, known for her unique characters on 'Saturday Night Live,' faced a life filled with personal struggles, including bulimia and multiple miscarriages. Her tragic death at age 42 from ovarian cancer prompts questions about the disease's cause and missed diagnostic opportunities. World-renowned medical examiner and forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter leads an investigation to uncover the answers.

On September 11th, 2003, beloved television star John Ritter passed away unexpectedly at the age of 54 while filming his acclaimed sitcom '8 Simple Rules.' Despite a clean bill of health from a full body scan just two years prior, his sudden death raises questions about the cause of this tragic loss for the entertainment world.

The world mourned the loss of Hollywood child star Patty Duke on March 29th, 2016. Charming audiences for over six decades, she left an indelible mark on the industry.

On December 2nd, 1986, Desi Arnaz, beloved for his portrayal of Ricky Ricardo in the iconic 1950s TV series 'I Love Lucy,' passed away at the age of 69, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.

In late September 1992, Hepburn returned to Switzerland from Somalia and started experiencing abdominal pain. Tests at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles in November revealed she had a rare form of abdominal cancer called pseudomyxoma peritonei. After surgery and chemotherapy, Hepburn spent her last days at home in Switzerland, passing away in her sleep on January 20, 1993.

On May 8, 1999, Dana Plato and her fiancé Robert Menchaca visited Menchaca's mother in Moore, Oklahoma for Mother's Day. Plato, feeling unwell, took painkiller Lortab and muscle relaxant Soma before lying down in their parked Winnebago motor home. Upon awakening, Menchaca and family found Plato deceased. Initially considered an accidental overdose, her death was later ruled a suicide due to her extensive history of drug abuse.

Dr. Hunter delves into Prodigy's lifelong struggle with sickle cell anemia to uncover the circumstances surrounding his death.

Howard Hughes, the legendary business magnate and Hollywood figure, passed away at 70 on April 5th, 1976. Known for his groundbreaking achievements in aviation, film production, and business, Hughes founded notable companies, acquired RKO Pictures and TWA, and dated Hollywood stars. Despite immense wealth, Hughes withdrew from the public eye in his later years, facing health issues. Forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter investigates Hughes' extensive autopsy to uncover the truth behind his enigmatic death.

In September 1991 the legendary Jazz trumpet player Miles Davis died suddenly after going in to hospital for what he described as a ‘routine tune up’. He was just 65 years old. Rumors of addiction and ill health plagued him throughout life, but the exact cause of his death has remained obscure. Now, expert Coroner and Forensic Pathologist, Dr. Michael Hunter is re-examining his medical history in order to finally reveal the true cause of Miles Davis’ death.

Cory Monteith was a global superstar. The clean cut all American quarterback on Glee idolized by millions of teens around the world. The TV phenomenon thrust him to instant stardom in 2009 and his public persona mirrored his on screen character. But on 13 July 2013 he was found dead on his hotel room floor, aged only 31. Forensic Pathologist, Michael Hunter, discovers that Cory was not what he appeared and beneath his clean cut exterior lay a dark and troubled past that would come back to haunt him.

Jimi Hendrix was one of the highest paid musicians in the world. At the age of 27 he had made 3 multi-million albums and had set the gold standard in rock music electric guitar. But he died in London on the September 18, 1970. The coroner concluded that he died after breathing in his own vomit. But, stating insufficient evidence of the circumstances surrounding his death, he returned an open verdict. Nearly half a century later, his death is still shrouded in mystery. Numerous conflicting accounts of his final hours have obscured the truth and fueled conspiracy theories about drugs overdose, suicide and murder. Now Medical Examiner Dr. Michael Hunter re-examines Hendrix’s death to cut through claim and counter claims and, using the medical evidence, determines precisely how he died.

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Liberace was one of the most charismatic performers of his generation. His meteoric rise to fame in the 1950s made him the highest paid entertainer in the world. His dazzling stage shows and outlandish costumes earned him a vast international following. But on February 4th, 1987, Liberace was pronounced dead at his home in Palm Springs, California. However, the circumstances surrounding the death of one of the world’s most popular entertainers are shrouded in mystery. Liberace’s doctor had signed a death certificate, giving the cause of death as cardiac arrest. But the coroner wasn’t satisfied. He suspected foul play, and two days later, ordered the body to be taken from the mortuary and subject to autopsy, while millions of fans around the world were still in mourning. So what exactly killed Liberace? Dr Jason Payne James examines the case.

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On May 27th, 2011, actor Jeff Conaway, known for his role as Kenickie in Grease, passed away, prompting sadness worldwide. Despite a successful five-decade career, Conaway faced publicized struggles with addiction. Speculation arose in the media suggesting an overdose as the cause of death. However, after a thorough examination of Conaway's autopsy report, forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter explores various potential factors contributing to his untimely demise, shedding light on the true circumstances surrounding his death.

Dr Jason Payne-James re-examines the medical facts surrounding the death of the actor Phillip Seymour Hoffman.

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Forensic pathologists investigate the death of WWF's André the Giant.

In March 1991, Rodney King was savagely beaten by four white police officers. The incident was caught on camera, and broadcast around the world. The four police officers were then found ‘Not Guilty’, triggering the infamous LA riots. It was King who famously called for peace, asking, “Can we all just get along?” But on Sunday June 17th 2012, King, age 47, was found by his fiancé, face down in his backyard swimming pool. Using information revealed in Rodney King’s autopsy report Dr. Michael Hunter investigates his final hours and his mysterious death.

The Notorious B.I.G., rapped about girls, guns and money. His rhyming skills and flow propelled him to worldwide fame. A larger than life figure from Brooklyn, New York, his raw talent lifted him from the streets. But in the early hours of March 9th 1997 The Notorious BIG was gunned down in a drive by shooting in downtown Los Angeles. For decades, police have hunted for his killer, but still no-one has been brought to trial. Using information revealed in his autopsy report and police files, Dr. Michael Hunter investigates a motive for BIG’s murder and the identity of his killer.

Forensic pathologists conducts research on the final days of former First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis.

Forensic pathologists needs to analyze every detail of Eddie Van Halen's life in order to piece together what else may have been going on in his body, ultimately leading to his untimely death. On October 6th 2020, the world was shocked by the news that guitar legend Eddie Van Halen had died. A rock prodigy with a boyish charm, Eddie was never more comfortable than when he had a guitar in his hand.

Forensic pathologists examines the last hours of Freddie Prinze, breakout comedy star of the primetime sitcom 'Chico and the Man.'

Forensic pathologists analyze the details of late Roddy Piper's life to determine what was going on in his body before his death.

Forensic pathologists try to uncover the truth behind Robert Reed's passing. While the cause of the actor's seemingly untimely death at the age of 59 was attributed to colon cancer, Dr. Hunter suspects that there's something more that was not told.

Forensic pathologists take a closer look at the final hours of Flip Wilson's life.

Forensic pathologists take a closer look at the final hours of Sammy Davis Jr.

Forensic pathologists examines what was really happening in Sean Connery's body and how it lead to his death. On October 31st 2020, the world was shocked by the news that legendary star of the silver screen and the man who optimized James Bond, Sean Connery, had died. As one of the original action heroes Sean had been dealing out thrills and spills to moviegoers for over 60 years by the time of his death.

Forensic pathologists attempt to get to the truth of how Doris Day died.

Andy Warhol rose to fame in the 1960s as the trail-blazing leader of the pop art movement. He was on the cutting edge of everything – from painting to film, from sculpture to music – and his images and ideas helped define American popular culture. Yet even as he achieved superstardom he remained an enigmatic and controversial figure. On February 22nd 1987, the most famous living artist died unexpectedly in a New York hospital, at the age of 58. Now renowned forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter is reopening the case into Andy Warhol’s mysterious death.

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A look at the last hours of Buddy Holly by forensic pathologists.

Following her rise to fame in the 1960s Joan Rivers became the undisputed queen of stand-up comedy. For nearly five decades her unique brand of fast-talking, acid tongued wit made her a fixture on stage and television around the globe. But at 1.17pm on 4th September 2014 Joan was pronounced dead in her hospital room. She was 81. Joan Rivers was known for her love of plastic surgery. But after risking her life on numerous occasions by going under the cosmetic surgeon’s knife, a routine, low-risk procedure was to go tragically wrong. Dr Jason Payne James investigates the last days of Joan Rivers.

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Heath Ledger was Hollywood’s rising star. Richly talented with rugged good looks his first Oscar nomination came in mid twenties for his role as a sexually repressed ranch hand in Brokeback Mountain. Two years later Ledger’s versatility saw him deliver one of the big screen’s most unforgettable performances as Batman’s psychopathic nemesis The Joker. But at 3.36pm on 22 January 2008 Ledger was pronounced dead in the bedroom of his New York apartment. Using the evidence of his post-mortem exam, together with the testimony of friends and colleagues, Dr Jason Payne James investigates the final hours of Heath Ledger.

Michael Clarke Duncan's sudden death from a heart attack at 54 in 2012 sparks conspiracy theories addressed by The Doctors.

In 2015, Aaron Hernandez was convicted of murdering Odin Lloyd, his fiancée's sister's boyfriend. While serving a life sentence, he was discovered dead in his prison cell at 3:03 am on April 19, 2017.

Dr. Michael Hunter, a forensic pathologist, investigates Greg Allman's death certificate and related documents to determine the internal factors that led to his untimely passing.

On December 13, 2016, Alan Thicke collapsed while playing ice hockey with his son at Pickwick Gardens in Burbank, California. Despite joking with his son as he was being wheeled out on a stretcher, Thicke tragically passed away from type-A aortic dissection at the Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center in Burbank at the age of 69.

On March 5, 1988, Gibb celebrated his 30th birthday in London while working on a new album. Two days later, he was admitted to John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford due to chest pains. By March 10, 1988, despite the need for further tests, Gibb unexpectedly succumbed to myocarditis, attributed to years of cocaine abuse weakening his heart. His ex-wife, Kim Reeder, expressed no surprise at the news, foreseeing such an outcome due to his history of substance abuse.

Glen Campbell, the renowned singer-songwriter from Arkansas, is remembered for his successful career in country and pop music. With hits like "Rhinestone Cowboy" and "Wichita Lineman," Campbell showcased his talents as a singer, songwriter, and musician. He was also an accomplished guitarist who collaborated with many famous artists. Despite his unfortunate battle with Alzheimer's disease, which led to his decline and passing in 2017, Campbell's courage in the face of his diagnosis brought widespread awareness to the condition. His legacy in the music industry is an enduring one.

Dr. Michael Hunter, a renowned coroner and forensic pathologist, examines the mysterious death of Jeffrey Epstein, who died in a Manhattan jail cell under controversial circumstances.

Dr. Michael Hunter examines the death of actor Adam West, beloved for his portrayal of Batman in the 1960s series. West, born William West Anderson in 1928, adopted his iconic stage name and left an enduring legacy in entertainment. His career spanned decades, including voice acting and embracing his Batman fame with humor. West passed away in 2017 at 88, beloved by fans of classic TV and superheroes.

Forensic Pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter examines the death of 1970s heartthrob David Cassidy, whose portrayal of Keith Partridge on 'The Partridge Family' launched his career. Beyond acting, Cassidy's musical talent made him a pop star. However, his later years were marked by substance abuse struggles, financial troubles, and legal issues. Cassidy's passing in 2017 at 67 due to liver and kidney failure highlights the darker side of fame.

Forensic Pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter examines the death of iconic actor Larry Hagman, beloved for his roles in 'I Dream of Jeannie' and 'Dallas.' Hagman's career spanned decades, and his portrayal of J.R. Ewing brought him international fame. Beyond acting, Hagman advocated for environmental causes and loved aviation. His health declined in later years, and he passed away in 2012 at 81 due to cancer complications, leaving a lasting television legacy.

Dick Clark was a renowned American television personality and producer, best known for hosting the iconic shows "American Bandstand" and "New Year's Rockin' Eve." He had a long and successful career in the entertainment industry, spanning several decades. However, in December 2004, Clark suffered a stroke that affected his speech and mobility. Despite this setback, he continued working and made appearances on television shows, showcasing his resilience and dedication to his craft. Sadly, on April 18, 2012, at the age of 82, Dick Clark passed away due to a heart attack. Forensic Pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter investigated the circumstances surrounding his death.

Billy Mays was a well-known television pitchman famous for his energetic infomercials. On June 28, 2009, he was found dead in his Florida home. The cause of death was later determined to be hypertensive heart disease, as Mays had a history of hypertension. His sudden passing at the age of 50 shocked many. Forensic Pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter is investigating the circumstances surrounding his death.

Burt Reynolds, a beloved American actor known for his charismatic performances, faced health challenges including a back injury, painkiller addiction, and heart bypass surgery. Despite personal struggles, he maintained his prominence in Hollywood. Reynolds passed away at 82 from a heart attack on September 6, 2018, leaving behind a legendary career. Forensic Pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter is investigating the circumstances surrounding Reynolds' cause of death, shedding light on the final chapter of the actor's life.

Debbie Reynolds, a renowned American actress and performer, faced personal challenges, including multiple marriages and financial struggles. The heartbreaking loss of her daughter, Carrie Fisher, in 2016 is believed to have impacted her health. Tragically, Reynolds passed away at 84 from a stroke just one day after Fisher's death. Forensic Pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter is investigating the circumstances surrounding Reynolds' cause of death, shedding light on the events that deeply affected their fans and the entertainment industry, marking the end of an era in Hollywood.

Tom Petty, the acclaimed American singer-songwriter and frontman of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, wowed audiences with his unique voice and rock hits. Despite his success, Petty battled substance abuse and depression. In 2017, he embarked on a final tour to mark the band's 40th anniversary. Sadly, Petty died at 66 from a cardiac arrest at his California home on October 2, 2017. Forensic Pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter is investigating the circumstances of his death, revealing insights into the unexpected loss of the rock legend and its impact on fans and the music industry.

Uncovering the truth behind the devastating heart failure that killed this 88-year-old actor. On January 14th, 2009, the revered actor, Ricardo Montalbán, died from Congestive Heart Failure at 88 years old. Born in Mexico, he discovered a passion for acting while studying English in the USA. His natural charm and good looks mixed with an innate talent led to an on-screen career that spanned seven decades.

Forensic pathologists investigate the death of WWF's Eddie Guerrero.

Forensic pathologists analyze the final hours of James Garner.

On 16th July, 1999, John Kennedy Jr. crashed his Piper Sartoga aircraft into the ocean off Martha's Vineyard. He died instantly along with his wife Carolyn and her sister Lauren. John was just 38. John shared some of these characteristics, his ADHD did not help, but was conscious of this cycle of destruction and disaster. If anybody looked capable of outrunning the family's dark history it was him. As the world had watched, that little boy had grown into a gentle, beautiful man.

On November 30, 2013, the shocking news was shared that Paul Walker had died in a high-speed car accident. Paul had a thirst for thrills etched into his DNA. His maternal grandfather raced cars at the famous Bonneville Speedway, while his male side was dominated by wartime heroics.