Autopsy: The Last Hours Of... Season 9 Episode 15 Desi Arnaz

Desi Arnaz was a beloved television pioneer known for his role as Ricky Ricardo on the iconic sitcom "I Love Lucy." But beyond his on-screen success, few knew the extent of Arnaz's personal struggles, including his struggle with alcoholism, that ultimately led to his untimely death at the age of 69.

In "Autopsy: The Last Hours Of... Desi Arnaz," renowned forensic pathologist, Dr. Michael Hunter, dives deep into Arnaz's medical history and the events leading up to his death to shed light on the circumstances surrounding his passing. Through expert analysis and interviews with family members and colleagues, Dr. Hunter pieces together a comprehensive picture of Arnaz's final days.

The episode begins with an overview of Arnaz's life and rise to fame as the co-star and producer of "I Love Lucy." Despite his success, Arnaz struggled with addiction throughout his life and often turned to alcohol to cope with the pressures of fame and the dissolution of his marriage to Lucille Ball.

As Dr. Hunter delves into Arnaz's medical records, he uncovers evidence of the actor's chronic alcohol abuse, including liver damage and pancreatitis. Through interviews with Arnaz's son, Desi Arnaz Jr., and close friend, comedian Carol Burnett, Dr. Hunter learns more about the extent of Arnaz's struggle with alcohol and the impact it had on his health.

The episode also explores the events leading up to Arnaz's death in 1986, including his hospitalization for pneumonia several weeks before his passing. Dr. Hunter analyzes Arnaz's medical records from the hospital stay and speaks with physicians who treated him in order to understand the impact that his alcoholism had on his ability to recover.

Finally, Dr. Hunter examines the circumstances of Arnaz's death, which was caused by lung cancer that had metastasized throughout his body. Despite undergoing treatment for the cancer, Arnaz ultimately succumbed to the disease in December 1986, leaving behind a legacy as one of television's most beloved stars.

"Autopsy: The Last Hours Of... Desi Arnaz" provides a in-depth look at the life and untimely death of a television icon, shedding light on the personal struggles that sometimes accompany great success. By analyzing Arnaz's medical history and speaking with those closest to him, Dr. Hunter presents a comprehensive picture of the factors that contributed to Arnaz's death and the impact it had on his loved ones and fans.