Browse all episodes of Autopsy: The Last Hours of...

Dr. Richard Shepherd investigates the sudden death of Michael Jackson, a renowned recording artist who died at 50 with significant debts, leaving behind many unanswered questions.

Michael Jackson

The episode highlights Whitney Houston, a talented singer and actress whose remarkable voice led to fame. Despite her talent, she faced personal struggles that ultimately led to her death at 48 in a hotel bathroom.

Whitney Houston

Dr. Richard Shepherd investigates the death of Anna Nicole Smith, a model who gained fame and fortune through her high-profile relationships and career. Despite her success, her path led to personal struggles that culminated in her death at 40 in a Florida hotel room.

Anna Nicole Smith

Forensic pathologist Dr. Richard Shepherd reexamines the official autopsy report to investigate the tragic death of singer Michael Hutchence.

Michael Hutchence

Forensic pathologist Dr. Richard Shepherd reexamines the official autopsy report to investigate the tragic death of singer Karen Carpenter.

Karen Carpenter

Forensic pathologist Dr. Richard Shepherd reexamines the death of Hollywood actress and singer Brittany Murphy.

Brittany Murphy

Dr. Richard Shepherd uses forensic analysis of Elvis Presley's autopsy to reconstruct the last days of his life.

Elvis Presley

Dr. Richard Shepherd investigates the cause of Robin Williams' suicide on the night of August 11, 2014.

Robin Williams

Dr. Richard Shepherd uses forensic analysis of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman's autopsies to reconstruct the last days of his life.

Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman

Dr. Richard Shepherd uses forensic analysis of River Phoenix's autopsy to reconstruct the last days of his life.

River Phoenix

Dr. Richard Shepherd investigates the sudden death of the iconic actress by examining her autopsy report and recently released private medical records.

Marilyn Monroe

Amy Winehouse, aged 27, was found dead at her home in Camden, London on July 23, 2011. The investigation seeks to determine how and why she tragically drank herself to death.

Amy Winehouse

Forensic physician Dr. Jason Payne-James analyzes the hours leading up to the mysterious death of Heath Ledger, a rising Hollywood star known for his acclaimed performances in Brokeback Mountain and as the Joker in The Dark Knight.

Heath Ledger

Dr. Jason Payne-James investigates the final days of Joan Rivers, a highly respected and larger-than-life personality, to determine the cause of her death.

Joan Rivers

This episode delves into the events that preceded the untimely death of George Best, incorporating medical testimony.

George Best

Dr. Jason Payne-James reviews the medical facts pertaining to the death of actor Philip Seymour Hoffman.

Philip Seymour Hoffman

The episode explores the events leading up to the death of the child actress from Miracle on 34th Street, who later became a beloved adult actress and married Robert Wagner twice. The marriage was marked by infidelity rumors, prompting questions about whether her death was accidental or a result of foul play.

Natalie Wood

The episode examines the untimely death of actor Phil Hartman, known for his work on "Saturday Night Live" and "The Simpsons." Hartman was found dead in his home in May 1998.

Phil Hartman

The episode explores the life and death of The Doors frontman, who passed away in Paris at the age of 27.

Jim Morrison

The episode explores the life of Donda West, mother of rapper Kanye West, who was instrumental in her son's achievements. She passed away at 58, just one day after undergoing cosmetic surgery. Dr. Michael Hunter investigates her death by analyzing her autopsy report and speaking with those who cared for her before her sudden death.

Donda West

In 1991, Rodney King was beaten by four white police officers, leading to widespread outrage. The Los Angeles riots erupted following the officers' acquittal, sparking significant unrest.

Rodney King

The episode delves into the mysterious circumstances surrounding the death of comic legend and actor John Belushi on March 5, 1982.

John Belushi

The episode examines the final hours of Jimi Hendrix and explores different theories surrounding his death on September 18, 1970.

Jimi Hendrix

The episode explores the life and death of Bee Gees member Maurice Gibb, who died on January 8, 2003, at his home in Miami.

Maurice Gibb

The episode provides a detailed examination of the unsolved murder of The Notorious B.I.G., who was fatally shot in a drive-by shooting on March 9, 1997.

Notorious B.I.G.

Don Cornelius, the renowned creator of the music and dance show "Soul Train," was found shot to death at his home on February 1, 2012.

Don Cornelius

Liberace was found dead at his home in Palm Springs, California on February 4, 1987. The circumstances of his death are unclear, as his doctor cited cardiac arrest on the death certificate, but the coroner suspected foul play and ordered an autopsy to investigate further.

Liberace

An investigation into the cause of death of Bobbi Kristina Brown.

Bobbi Kristina Brown

The episode explores the life and career of Chris Farley, a larger-than-life Hollywood star known as one of the funniest comics of his generation.

Chris Farley

Examining Corey Haim's autopsy report, the investigation aims to dispel rumors and uncover the actual cause of the actor's tragic and untimely death at the age of 38.

Corey Haim

The investigation focuses on examining the last hours of Cory Monteith.

Cory Monteith

The episode explores the tragic death and surrounding drama of beloved radio legend Casey Kasem, who passed away at the age of 82 in June 2014.

Casey Kasem

Legendary actor Steve McQueen, known for roles in 'The Great Escape', 'The Magnificent Seven', and 'Bullitt', was the world's highest-paid movie star by the mid-1970s. However, he passed away almost unrecognizable in a Mexico hospital bed on November 7, 1980, at the age of 50. His death led to wild rumors and conspiracy theories. Forensic Pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter investigates Steve's extensive medical records to uncover the truth behind his death and shed light on what truly happened to this iconic star.

Steve McQueen

In April 1994, musician and "prince of grunge" Kurt Cobain was found dead at his Seattle mansion, with a gunshot wound to his head. Initially ruled a suicide, controversy surrounding his death persisted for over twenty years, with questions raised about the heroin in his system. Expert Coroner and Forensic Pathologist, Dr. Michael Hunter, has analyzed the medical evidence and testimonies from family and friends to uncover the true cause of Kurt Cobain's death.

Kurt Cobain

Bob Marley, a musical revolutionary known for bringing reggae to the world stage, was also recognized for his passion for soccer and adherence to the Rastafarian lifestyle promoting healthy living. However, on May 11th, 1981, Bob Marley passed away in a Miami hospital at the age of 36. His unexpected death led to conspiracy theories about a possible assassination. Now, over 30 years later, Forensic Pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter reexamines Bob Marley's medical records and eyewitness accounts to uncover the true cause of death for this iconic musician.

Bob Marley

Dennis Wilson, the drummer for the Beach Boys, was renowned for his good looks, adventurous spirit, and musical talent. Despite being an avid surfer, he tragically drowned in shallow water. Forensic Pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter investigates Dennis's autopsy report to address rumors and uncover the true cause of the drummer's untimely death at the age of 39.

Dennis Wilson

Richard Pryor, a groundbreaking comedian known for his candid and revolutionary performances, lived a life marked by a hedonistic lifestyle involving excessive drinking, drug use, and promiscuity. In the later years of his life, Pryor battled a debilitating illness that left him paralyzed and unable to speak. Despite this, he passed away on December 10, 2005, from a cardiac arrest. Dr. Michael Hunter, a Forensic Pathologist, analyzes Richard Pryor's medical records to uncover the exact cause of death for the beloved comedian.

Richard Pryor

John Denver, a renowned singer-songwriter, attained global fame with hits like 'Country Roads' and 'Rocky Mountain High.' Despite being one of America's best-selling artists in the mid-70s, he tragically crashed his plane into the Pacific Ocean on October 12, 1997. The mysterious circumstances surrounding the crash sparked rumors and speculation, further complicated by the difficulty of recovering only fragments of his plane and body from the sea. Forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter reopens the case to delve into the enigmatic death of John Denver.

John Denver

Renowned pop superstar Prince, who sold over 100 million records in his 30-year career, was recognized for his health-conscious lifestyle and anti-drug stance. Despite this, he tragically died from a drug overdose on April 21st, 2016. The case is still under investigation, and forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter analyzes Prince's medical history to understand the possible causes of his untimely death at 57, aiming to illuminate the events preceding the loss of this beloved icon.

Prince

Natalie Cole, a singing legend and daughter of crooner Nat 'King' Cole, achieved immense success with nine Grammy wins. Overcoming drug addiction in the 1980s, she found renewed success. However, in 2008, her past struggles caught up with her, leading to a series of medical conditions. Despite ongoing health battles, Natalie bravely continued to perform worldwide and had plans for an extensive tour in 2016. Tragically, on New Year's Eve 2015, after facing numerous health challenges, her body succumbed to the accumulated illnesses.

Natalie Cole

Patrick Swayze, a celebrated actor, dancer, and singer, rose to global fame with his iconic performances. Despite being a beloved Hollywood heartthrob in the late 80s, he sadly died at his California ranch at the age of 57. Forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter delves into Patrick's extensive medical records to reveal the truth behind his death and illuminate the events leading to the loss of this iconic star.

Patrick Swayze

Steve Jobs, a visionary product designer who revolutionized the computer world with beloved products like the iPod, iPhone, and iPad, passed away on October 5th, 2011, from a rare and easily treatable form of pancreatic cancer. Despite his wealth, resources, and passion for health and diet, questions arise as to why Jobs succumbed to the disease. Forensic Pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter studies Jobs' medical records to uncover the reasons behind his untimely death.

Steve Jobs

Bernie Mac, a beloved stand-up comedian, rose from poverty through years of hard work in Chicago clubs before achieving fame in the early 90s with Def Comedy Jam. He later gained mainstream success with movie roles and his own TV show. Despite his career peak, Mac tragically passed away at age 50 in July 2008 after being hospitalized with pneumonia. Medical Examiner Dr. Michael Hunter is reexamining the death of this unique and cherished performer.

Bernie Mac

Gary Coleman rose to fame as the beloved star of the eighties sitcom "Different Strokes," known for his charm, wit, and iconic catchphrase. Despite his success, he faced health issues and his career declined, leading to negative publicity due to his reputation as a hot-tempered individual and a series of arrests. In a tragic turn of events, Coleman passed away under mysterious circumstances on May 28th, 2010, following an incident at his home in Utah.

Gary Coleman

Janis Joplin, a rock and roll icon known for her electrifying performances, embraced the spirit of the age and was on the brink of a skyrocketing music career. Tragically, at just 27 years old, she passed away alone in her Los Angeles hotel on October 4th, 1970, with her body remaining undiscovered for 18 hours. Forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter is examining Joplin's autopsy report to uncover the events leading to the sudden death of this young and talented musician.

Janis Joplin

Judy Garland, an iconic talent in film and on stage, rose to fame as a child star playing Dorothy in 'The Wizard of Oz' and continued to enthrall audiences with her exceptional voice. Alongside her immense talent, Garland was known for her turbulent personal life. Following her marriage to Mickey Deans, she was tragically found dead in her bathroom on June 22, 1969. Dr. Michael Hunter investigates her medical records to uncover the truth behind the sudden passing of this Hollywood legend.

Judy Garland

Bruce Lee, the martial arts superstar, passed away in Hong Kong under mysterious circumstances at the young age of 32. An inquest attributed his death to a hypersensitive reaction to a prescription painkiller he took for a headache. Over the years, various theories have emerged surrounding the true cause of his death, leading to controversy. Forensic Pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter analyzes Lee's autopsy and inquest report to uncover the actual cause of his untimely demise and dispel any rumors.

Bruce Lee

Anissa Jones, best known for her role as Buffy in the 1960s sitcom Family Affair, was a beloved child star of her time. Tragically, she passed away at 18 years old on August 28th, 1976, at a friend's house in Oceanside, California. A photo taken the day before her death showed her in good physical condition. Forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter delves into Jones' life and final hours to uncover the circumstances surrounding her sudden and tragic demise.

Anissa Jones

On June 19th 2013 James Gandolfini died of a heart attack in Rome. He was just 51 years old. A famously intense character actor, he was credited with changing the very nature of television acting. First appearing in films such as True Romance and Get Shorty, it was the HBO series The Sopranos that made him a household name. But his dedication to his craft took a deep toll on the actor, and rumors of addiction and excess followed him throughout his career. Now expert pathologist Dr Michael Hunter is re-examining his medical history in order to discover what led him to die of a heart attack at only 51.

James Gandolfini

In February 2013 Country Music singer Mindy McCready shot herself on the porch of her housein Heber Springs Arkansas. Now, world-renowned Forensic Pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter puts Mindy's complex personal life under the spotlight,and reveals how her unhealthy relationship with prescription medication may have exacerbated an un-diagnosed mental condition and led Mindy to plan her own death.

Mindy McCready

On the afternoonof April 1, 1984, the day before his 45th birthday, Marvin Gaye was shot by his father.Now renowned forensic pathologist Dr Michael Hunter is reopening this bizarre case to discover what was happening both psychologically and physiologically to the bodies of Marvin Gay senior and Marvin Gaye junior at the time of the shooting that may explain the reason behind this tragic case of filicide.

Marvin Gaye

Mary Tyler Moore was the sweetheart of American television, starring in two ofthe most successful sit-coms of all time. She pavedthe way for strong, independent women on screenand captured the era’s spirit of freedom and optimism. But behind the iconic smile was a life beset by tragedy, illness and addiction. On January 25th, 2017, Marydiedof a cardiac arrest in Greenwich Hospital, Connecticut – at the age of 80. Now renowned forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter is investigating the events leading upto her final heartbeat to explainthe cause of death.

Mary Tyle Moore

On June 25, 2009, actressand 1970’s icon, Farrah Fawcett died of a rare formof cancer in Los Angeles. Her death at 62 shocked her fans, friends and family as Farrah didn’t smoke, ate healthy food and worked hard to keep fit. In this episode, expert coroner and Forensic Pathologist, Dr. Michael Hunter examines Farrah’s medical history and hears from some of her closest friends to try and work out what caused Farrah’s cancer and ifthe alternative cancer treatments she received played any part in her death.

Farrah Fawcett

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.

Andy Kaufman

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.

Andy Warhol

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.

Muhammad Ali

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.

Miles Davis

James Brown was one of the most iconic and revolutionary performers of all time. He was known as the ‘Godfather of Soul’, ‘the Inventor of Funk’, ‘the Grandfather of Hip-Hop’ and ‘the Hardest Working Man in Show Business’ and he sold tens of millions of records. After decades at the top, the most sampled man in history was still touring in his 70s but on Christmas Day 2006 he died unexpectedly in a hospital in Atlanta, Georgia. Now renowned forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter is reopening the case into James Brown’s seemingly death.

James Brown

On July 29th 1974, Cass Elliot was found dead in a flat in London. She was 32 years old and her death shocked the world. One of the most influential figures of the hippy scene, she rose to fame as a member of folk-rock band The Mamas and The Papas, who took the world by storm with their hit single ‘California Dreamin’ along with a string of classic songs.

Tammy Wynette

In September 1955, the twenty-four-year-old actor and figurehead of teen rebellion, James Dean died in a horrific car crash near Cholame in California. For more than 60 years mystery has surrounded the cause of the crash as Dean was an accomplished racing driver travelling on a straight road in good conditions. Now, expert Coroner and Forensic Pathologist, Dr. Michael Hunter is reopening the case using testimony from family, friends, crash experts and biographers to finally reveal the real cause of James Dean’s death.

James Dean

On March 23, 2011, actress and Hollywood legend, Elizabeth Taylor, died of a cardiac arrest in Los Angeles. Her death at 79 caused shock waves around the world at the loss of one of the world’s last great movie stars. Despite her glittering career, Elizabeth Taylor’s life had been blighted by ill health, tragedy and failed marriages leading to addictions to alcohol and prescription drugs. In this episode, expert Coroner and Forensic Pathologist, Dr. Michael Hunter examines Elizabeth Taylor’s extensive medical history to try and discover what caused the death of this Hollywood icon.

Elizabeth Taylor

George Michael, one of the most brilliant performers of his generation; in a career spanning 35 years, his talent for creating enduring music leads him to become one of the greatest recording artists of all time.

George Michael

On 29th November 2001 amid much secrecy former Beatle George Harrison died after a short battle with lung cancer. His death at the relatively young age of 58 shocked fans across the world, especially since he had been allegedly been given the all clear just months earlier.… so did something go wrong? In this episode, expert coroner and Forensic Pathologist, Dr. Michael Hunter examines George’s medical history and hears from some of his close friends to try and work out what caused his cancer and if his lifestyle and career contributed in any way to his death.

George Harrison

In January 2016 rock music icon David Bowie died from cancer just 2 days after his 69th birthday. His death came as a total surprise – but it quickly emerged that Bowie had kept terminal illness a secret for 18 months from even his closest friends. Now, Forensic Pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter is taking a fresh look at David Bowie’s death and will reveal the truth about the cancer that killed him and how Bowie staged managed the perfect finale for this ultimate showman.

David Bowie

On September 12, 2003, the world was mourning the loss of legendary singer Johnny Cash, who died in Nashville, Tennessee from respiratory arrest. Known for his heavy drug use and reckless attitude to his health, Johnny Cash reached the age of 71 and died shortly after his wife of 35 years June Carter. Many speculated that he died of a broken heart and others believed it was his wayward lifestyle that was to blame. Now, Forensic Pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter is taking a fresh look at Johnny Cash’s death and will reveal whether years of drug abuse and hard-living led to the star’s demise or whether his death was due to something else entirely.

Johnny Cash

Provocative and iconic rock star Lou Reed star transformed the face of modern music. From his teens, the founder member of the seminal Velvet Underground lived a life of outrageous excess, pushing everything beyond the limit. His fascination with subculture and the underdogs of society inspired his work, most famously with songs such as Heroin, Walk on The Wild Side and Waiting For The Man. Though he practiced what he preached, Lou lived to the age of 71. Medical Examiner Dr. Michael Hunter has found evidence of events in Lou’s early life that fueled the rebellious tendencies which defined his life and ultimately caused his death.

Lou Reed

On September 19th 1973, singer and musician, Gram Parsons, died of drug toxicity at the Joshua Tree Inn, California, aged only 26. Gram Parsons was one of the great, lost talents of rock music - combining country, folk and rock to create his own original sound. Often critically acclaimed, he pioneered his own blend of cosmic American music. But during his short life, he became almost as famous for his drug and drink consumption as he did for his music. Now, Forensic Pathologist Dr Michael Hunter is taking a fresh look at Gram Parsons autopsy and will reveal why such a seasoned drug user could have suddenly met his end on that night at the Joshua Tree Inn.

Gram Parsons

Roy Orbison was one of the most influential rock stars of the Twentieth Century. With hits like "Pretty Woman" he was one of the most influential rock stars of the Twentieth Century. He died at age 52 after collapsing at his mother’s house.

Roy Orbison

Florence Ballard was the founding member of the popular Motown vocal female group the Supremes. Ballard sang on 16 top forty singles with the group, including ten number-one hits. After being removed from the Supremes in 1967, Ballard tried an unsuccessful solo career. Ballard struggled with alcoholism, depression, and poverty for three years. She was making an attempt for a musical comeback when she died of a heart attack in February 1976 at the age of 32. English

Florence Ballard

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

Chris Cornell

On September 27th, 2017, Media Magnate, and International Playboy Hugh Hefner or Hef as he liked to be known died at the world-famous Playboy Mansion in Beverley Hills. Hef’s death certificate reports that he died of a cardiac arrest. But he was incredibly fit for a 91-year old, still at the head of the Playboy Empire, and hosting huge Hollywood parties. So what happened? World renowned forensic pathologist, Dr Michael Hunter needs to analyze every detail in the limited available information to piece together what was really going on Hef’s body to find the answers.

Hugh Hefner

On April 6, 1998 country icon Tammy Wynette was found dead her Nashville home. The 55 year-old’s life had been blighted by ill health, failed marriages and an addiction to pain killers. Following her death her daughters sued both her husband and doctor, leading to the exhumation of her body and an autopsy. In this episode renowned forensic pathologist Dr Michael Hunter analyses her autopsy report, together with the testimony of her daughters, her close friends to determine exactly how she died

Actress, Carrie Fisher died on December 27th 2016, four days after losing consciousness on a transatlantic flight. She was the daughter of Hollywood royalty, best known for playing Princess Leia in the Star Wars films. But she had a dark side and wrote a series of best-selling books about her battles with addiction although she was thought to be drug free before she died. In this episode world renowned forensic pathologist Dr Michael Hunter unpacks Carrie Fisher's unusually inconclusive official cause of death which is listed as ‘undetermined factors'. What really caused Carrie's death at the relatively young age of 60?

Carrie Fisher

Forensic pathologist Dr Michael Hunter investigates Barry White's medical history to get to the bottom of what caused his untimely death.

Barry White

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.

Christopher Reeve

Rue McClanahan, known for her role as Blanche Devereaux on "The Golden Girls," faced personal challenges despite her on-screen charm. Her reported cause of death was a stroke, typically caused by a blood clot to the brain. Interestingly, Rue was taking Warfarin, an anticoagulant meant to prevent clotting. The mystery behind her death at age 76 prompts forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter to meticulously analyze the available information for answers.

Rue McClanahan

Donna Summer, the Queen of Disco, passed away on May 17th, 2012, at her home in Naples, Florida, after a career spanning nearly 40 years. Despite her strict religious upbringing, she became known for her provocative disco music created with producer Giorgio Moroder. Donna's battle with cancer was kept private, with her death coming as a surprise to many, including extended family members. The family's announcement of what they believed to be the true cause of her death added to the mystery surrounding her passing. Forensic Pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter meticulously examines the limited available information to uncover the truth behind Donna Summer's untimely death.

Donna Summer

John Candy, the beloved comedy actor known for his larger-than-life personality and weight struggles, died in Durango, Mexico while filming Wagons East on March 4th, 1994. Despite the official cause listed as a heart attack, questions persist about the circumstances surrounding his passing at age 43. Renowned forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter investigates to uncover the truth behind Candy's untimely death.

John Candy

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.

Lucille Ball

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.

Jeff Conaway

Dr. Michael Hunter looks at the last three weeks in the life of Lisa "Left -Eye" Lopes to try to work out how and why she was killed. On April 25th 2002, Lisa "Left -Eye" Lopes was killed in a mysterious car crash in the depths of the Honduran Jungle. She was one third of the successful girl band TLC. At the height of TLC's fame she began to spend more and more time in a mysterious Jungle retreat that was set up by self-proclaimed healer Dr. Sebi.

Lisa Left Eye Lopes

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.

Howard Hughes

Actor, Producer and Director Michael Landon passed away at his Malibu, California home on July 1, 1991 just three months after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

Michael Landon

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

Michael Clarke Duncan

Davy gained global recognition for his acting and singing abilities, becoming the first of four cast members in the quirky TV series "The Monkees" at just 19 years old.

Davy Jones

Luther Vandross, a shining star in the music industry during the 80s and 90s, experienced a career downturn in the 90s. However, he was on the path to a successful comeback in the early 2000s when he suffered a massive stroke.

Luther Vandross

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.

Rick James

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.

Aaron Hernandez

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.

Chyna

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.

Garry Shandling

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.

Gregg Allman

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

Mobb Deep’s Prodigy

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.

Florence Henderson

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.

Alan Thicke

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.

Andy Gibb

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.

Dana Plato

In June 2007, wrestler Chris Benoit committed a murder-suicide, killing his wife Nancy and their 7-year-old son Daniel before taking his own life in their Fayetteville, Georgia home. This show examines the factors leading to the tragedy, including Benoit's mental health struggles, steroid use, and the toll of his wrestling career. Expert interviews shed light on the complex reasons behind Benoit's actions. Viewer discretion advised.

Chris Benoit

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.

Audrey Hepburn

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.

Glen Campbell

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.

Jeffrey Epstein

Revealing the truth behind the controversial deaths of some of the most famous celebrities. Crucial medical evidence gained from the actual autopsies explains what killed the stars and reveals how they died, finally putting an end to the speculation.

All Episodes of Autopsy: The Last Hours of...

All Episodes of Autopsy: The Last Hours of...

Season 1

Michael Jackson

Season 1 Episode 1 - Aired 1/7/2014

Whitney Houston

Season 1 Episode 2 - Aired 1/14/2014

Anna Nicole Smith

Season 1 Episode 3 - Aired 1/21/2014