Autopsy The Last Hours of... Season 5 Episode 8 Desi Arnaz

Desi Arnaz was a larger-than-life figure in Hollywood, known for both his acting talent and his trailblazing work as a producer. But despite his fame and success, Arnaz struggled with a number of health issues throughout his life - issues that would ultimately contribute to his untimely death at the age of 69.

In this episode of Autopsy: The Last Hours of..., forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter takes a detailed look at Arnaz's medical history, examining the various factors that may have contributed to his declining health in the years leading up to his death.

Hunter begins by delving into Arnaz's childhood, exploring how his experiences growing up in Cuba may have impacted his health later in life. He notes that Arnaz's family was relatively affluent, and that he had access to high-quality healthcare throughout his childhood - but that certain environmental factors, such as the prevalence of tobacco use in Cuba at the time, could have put him at increased risk for health issues down the line.

Moving on to Arnaz's adult years, Hunter takes a closer look at some of the health problems that plagued the star in his later life. He notes that Arnaz had a long history of heavy smoking, which likely contributed to his development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) - a condition characterized by decreased lung function and difficulty breathing.

In addition to his struggles with COPD, Arnaz also dealt with a number of other health issues throughout his life. Hunter points out that Arnaz was diagnosed with diverticulitis - an inflammation of the colon that can cause severe pain and discomfort - in the mid-1970s. Although the condition is generally treatable with antibiotics, Hunter notes that the severity of Arnaz's case may have required surgery to correct.

Hunter also examines Arnaz's relationship with alcohol, noting that the star struggled with alcoholism throughout his life. He points out that Arnaz's drinking habits likely put him at increased risk for a number of health issues, including liver damage and other organ damage.

Throughout the episode, Hunter weaves together a picture of a man who was beloved by millions - but who also struggled with a number of chronic health problems throughout his life. Despite his fame and success, Arnaz was ultimately unable to overcome the toll that his health issues took on his body, and he passed away in December of 1986.

Through his examination of Arnaz's medical history, Hunter highlights the importance of taking care of one's health - even when it seems easier to ignore potential problems or put off seeking treatment. He also sheds light on some of the lesser-known aspects of Arnaz's life, providing viewers with a new appreciation of this iconic Hollywood figure.