Autopsy The Last Hours of... Season 5 Episode 10 David Cassidy
- August 2, 2020
- 44 min
David Cassidy was a famous American singer, actor, and guitarist famous for his role in the 1970s television series "The Partridge Family." At the peak of his fame, he was a teenage heartthrob whose good looks, charm, and singing talent won him legions of fans worldwide. However, behind the scenes, Cassidy was struggling with personal demons, including alcoholism and addiction to prescription drugs. In this episode of "Autopsy: The Last Hours Of," forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter delves into the medical history, lifestyle, and final hours of David Cassidy to determine the cause of his untimely death at age 67.
The episode begins with Dr. Hunter reviewing David Cassidy's medical records and family history. Cassidy came from a show business family and was surrounded by fame and fortune from a young age. However, the stress of being a child actor and the pressure to maintain his image took a toll on his mental health. Cassidy began drinking alcohol and taking prescription drugs to cope with his anxiety and depression, leading to a lifelong battle with addiction.
Dr. Hunter also examines the physical damage that Cassidy's lifestyle inflicted on his body. Years of heavy drinking and drug use had weakened his liver and immune system, leaving him susceptible to infections and chronic illnesses. Cassidy was diagnosed with dementia in 2017 and had been hospitalized for liver and kidney failure multiple times in the years leading up to his death.
The episode then follows Cassidy's final days, as he performs a concert in San Francisco and prepares for a trip to Florida to continue his tour. Dr. Hunter examines the toxicology reports from Cassidy's autopsy and interviews eyewitnesses to piece together the events leading up to his death. Cassidy was found unconscious in his hotel room and was rushed to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead a few days later.
Through his investigation, Dr. Hunter concludes that Cassidy's cause of death was multi-organ failure due to alcoholism and chronic liver disease. He discusses how alcohol abuse can lead to complications such as cirrhosis and hepatitis, which can eventually cause the liver to shut down. He also explains how Cassidy's weakened immune system made it difficult for him to fight off infections, making him vulnerable to illnesses such as pneumonia.
The episode concludes with a tribute to David Cassidy, a talented performer whose life was tragically cut short by his struggles with addiction and mental illness. Dr. Hunter emphasizes the importance of seeking help for mental health issues and addiction, as early intervention can help prevent long-term damage to the body and mind.
Overall, this episode of "Autopsy: The Last Hours Of" provides a detailed and informative account of David Cassidy's life, legacy, and untimely death. Dr. Hunter's investigation sheds light on the complex relationship between fame, mental health, and addiction, highlighting the importance of seeking help and support for those who struggle with these challenges.