Autopsy The Last Hours of... Season 2 Episode 4 Casey Kasem
- December 10, 2016
Autopsy: The Last Hours of... is a highly-rated television series that explores the final days, hours and moments of some of the world's most famous people. In season 2 episode 4, titled Casey Kasem, the show closely examines the death of the legendary radio personality and voice actor known for his hosting of American Top 40 and voicing of Shaggy in Scooby-Doo.
Casey Kasem's final years were plagued by a bitter family feud between his second wife, Jean Kasem, and his children from his first marriage. This unrest culminated in a highly-publicized legal battle for control of the radio icon's medical care, with his children accusing their stepmother of isolating their father from them and making it difficult for them to check on his well-being.
On June 15, 2014, Casey Kasem was pronounced dead at St. Anthony's Hospital in Gig Harbor, Washington. He was aged 82. The official cause of death was listed as sepsis resulting from an ulcerated bedsore.
The episode delves deep into the events leading up to Casey's death, including his declining health, the bitter family feud, and the numerous medical issues he faced in his final year. It also features interviews with medical experts and friends of Casey who shed light on what may have led to his untimely demise.
The show examines how Kasem's declining health ultimately led to his hospitalization and how his wife raised questions with medical professionals about withdrawing his care. It explores the complications that arose, including the need to insert a feeding tube to bypass the ulcerated bedsores and how advanced treatment may have prolonged Casey's life.
The episode also highlights the role of hospice care in Kasem's final days. Hospice care was introduced after his wife refused to allow him to be transferred from the hospital to the care of his daughter and eldest child. Hospice care affirmed that Kasem was still receiving pain management measures up to and after his death.
The circumstances surrounding Casey Kasem's death remain controversial to this day. This episode of Autopsy: The Last Hours of... offers a nuanced and detailed exploration of the many factors that may have contributed to the tragic loss of a beloved radio personality and icon of the American music industry.