Ep 3. Donna Summer

Donna Summer was a legendary singer, known for her disco hits in the 1970s and 80s. However, her sudden death in 2012 shocked the world. In this episode of Autopsy: The Last Hours Of..., medical examiner Dr. Michael Hunter delves into the circumstances surrounding Summer's passing and attempts to piece together what may have led to her untimely death.

Hunter begins by examining Summer's medical history, which was largely obscured from public view. Despite her fame and success, Summer was a private person and rarely spoke about her health to the media. However, clues can be gleaned from her music videos and interviews. Hunter notes that Summer was often seen drinking and smoking on camera, indicating that she may have been struggling with addiction. In addition, he discovers that Summer had a history of anxiety and depression, which may have contributed to her substance abuse.

To further understand the events leading up to Summer's death, Hunter speaks to several people who were close to her at the time, including her husband Bruce Sudano and her long-time friend and collaborator Diane Warren. Sudano reveals that Summer had been experiencing back pain in the weeks before her death, and had been seeing a chiropractor for treatment. However, he also notes that Summer had a history of denial when it came to her health, and may not have been forthcoming with her doctors about her symptoms.

Using autopsy reports and medical records, Hunter pieces together the events of Summer's final days. On the day of her death, Summer was staying in an apartment in Florida with Sudano and their two daughters. According to Sudano, Summer had complained of feeling unwell all day, and had stayed in bed. However, when Sudano went to see her later that evening, he found her unresponsive. Despite attempts to resuscitate her, Summer was pronounced dead at the scene.

Using cutting-edge technology and medical expertise, Hunter uncovers the likely cause of Summer's death. He notes that she had a number of risk factors for cardiovascular disease, including a family history of heart disease and a history of smoking. In addition, he highlights the role that substance abuse may have played in her death, particularly given the high levels of drugs found in her system at the time of her autopsy.

Overall, this episode of Autopsy: The Last Hours Of... provides a fascinating insight into the life and death of Donna Summer. By exploring her medical history, interviewing those closest to her, and analyzing her autopsy reports and medical records, Hunter is able to shed new light on the circumstances surrounding her passing. Through this investigation, viewers are able to gain a deeper appreciation for Summer's legacy as an artist, while also learning important lessons about the dangers of addiction and the importance of prioritizing one's health.