UPCOMING EPISODES

Phil Hartman was a comedy legend. HIs satirical impressions on Saturday Night Live ruffled the feather of America’s most powerful. On The Simpsons, his voice gave life to 18 iconic characters. He was one of America’s favorite comic actors. But in May 1998 Phil Hartman’s family home was stormed by armed police who found him shot to death in his bedroom. The horror escalates when police confirm Phil’s wife Brynn is by his side – also shot dead. Using information revealed in Phil and Brynn’s autopsy reports Dr. Michael Hunter investigates their tragic and untimely deaths.

Don Cornelius was the legendary creator of the hit music and dance show, Soul Train. The “Godfather of Cool,” he took black music mainstream, provided the first national exposure on American TV for black musicians and dancers and redefined music, dance and fashion for generations. But on February 1st 2012 Don Cornelius was found shot dead at his home in Los Angeles. The LA County Coroner called it a suicide. Now, Medical Examiner Dr. Michael Hunter is taking a fresh look at the death of an icon who inspired generations.

Maurice Gibb was one third of global megaband, The Bee Gees. In a career spanning four decades, they sold over 220 million records. They were best known for their disco classics, high pitched singing voices, and bouffant hairstyles. Whilst his brothers sang lead vocals, Maurice was the hidden talent that held the band together, considered by insiders to be the musical director. But on Wednesday January 8th 2003, Maurice Gibb collapsed in agony at his Miami home. He died 4 days later, aged just 53. According to witnesses Maurice Gibb’s death came out of nowhere. So why Maurice went from healthy to collapse to death in 4 days is a mystery. Now world renowned forensic pathologist Dr Michael Hunter investigates the forensic evidence.

Chris Farley was the larger-than-life Hollywood star regarded as one of the funniest comedians of his generation. His outrageous blend of physical slapstick and vulnerable charm earned him the adoration of the American public. After shooting to fame in the early 90’s as one of Saturday Night Live’s brightest talents, he went on to star in a string of hit movies. But on December 18th 1997 Chris’ body was found on the floor of his Chicago apartment, after four days of partying. He died alone aged 33. Now, Medical Examiner Dr. Michael Hunter is taking a fresh look at the death of an icon who was loved by millions.

Corey Haim was the poster boy of 1980’s Hollywood, starring in “The Lost Boys”, “Lucas”, and “License to Drive.” Forensic Pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter examines Corey’s autopsy report to dispel the rumors, and reveal the real cause of the actor’s tragic and untimely death at the age of 38.

Aaron Hernandez was the youngest player in the history of the NFL and in 2012 his super star skills lit up the Super Bowl. But he was leading a double life. In 2015 Aaron Hernandez, was convicted of murdering Odin Lloyd, the boyfriend of his fiancée’s sister. And at 3.03 am on April 19, 2017, while serving a life sentence, Aaron Hernandez was found dead in his prison cell. He was just 27 years old. A medical examiner concluded that the cause of Aaron’s death was asphyxia by hanging but world-renowned forensic pathologist, Dr Michael Hunter, is hoping to discover what drove one of the most exciting prospects in the history of the NFL to take the life of others and ultimately his own.

Aaron Hernandez was the youngest player in the history of the NFL and in 2012 his super star skills lit up the Super Bowl. But he was leading a double life. In 2015 Aaron Hernandez, was convicted of murdering Odin Lloyd, the boyfriend of his fiancée’s sister. And at 3.03 am on April 19, 2017, while serving a life sentence, Aaron Hernandez was found dead in his prison cell. He was just 27 years old. A medical examiner concluded that the cause of Aaron’s death was asphyxia by hanging but world-renowned forensic pathologist, Dr Michael Hunter, is hoping to discover what drove one of the most exciting prospects in the history of the NFL to take the life of others and ultimately his own.

Cory Monteith was a global superstar. The clean cut all American quarterback on Glee idolized by millions of teens around the world. The TV phenomenon thrust him to instant stardom in 2009 and his public persona mirrored his on screen character. But on 13 July 2013 he was found dead on his hotel room floor, aged only 31. Forensic Pathologist, Michael Hunter, discovers that Cory was not what he appeared and beneath his clean cut exterior lay a dark and troubled past that would come back to haunt him.

Janis Joplin was a true rock and roll icon and her explosive performances electrified audiences around the world. She fully embraced the rock and roll spirit of the age and had a music career that was going stratospheric. But on October 4th 1970, aged just 27 years old, Janis Joplin died alone in her Los Angeles hotel. Her body lay undiscovered for 18 hours. Forensic pathologist, Dr Michael Hunter is using Janis Joplin’s autopsy report to build up a picture of her last days and hours to find out exactly how this young, talented musician suddenly died.

Martial arts superstar, Bruce Lee died in Hong Kong in mysterious circumstances aged just 32. An inquest concluded that his death was caused by a hypersensitive reaction to a prescription painkiller given to him for a headache. For more than forty years controversy has surrounded this conclusion with numerous theories emerging as to what might have caused his death. Forensic Pathologist, Dr. Michael Hunter has gained access to Bruce Lee’s autopsy and inquest report to dispel the rumors and reveal the real cause of Bruce Lee’s death.

Aaron Hernandez was the youngest player in the history of the NFL and in 2012 his super star skills lit up the Super Bowl. But he was leading a double life. In 2015 Aaron Hernandez, was convicted of murdering Odin Lloyd, the boyfriend of his fiancée’s sister. And at 3.03 am on April 19, 2017, while serving a life sentence, Aaron Hernandez was found dead in his prison cell. He was just 27 years old. A medical examiner concluded that the cause of Aaron’s death was asphyxia by hanging but world-renowned forensic pathologist, Dr Michael Hunter, is hoping to discover what drove one of the most exciting prospects in the history of the NFL to take the life of others and ultimately his own.

On June 12th 1994 the body of 34 year old Nicole Brown Simpson, ex-wife of OJ Simpson, and the body of Ron Goldman, a friend, were found on the sidewalk of her west LA home - both had apparently been viciously stabbed to death. Five days later in one of the most famous car chases, OJ Simpson went on the run from police - wanted for murder. Despite OJ being arrested and tried for the murders, after 10 months of what became known as the trial of the century, he was acquitted and even after extensive forensic police investigations no one has ever been found guilty of these horrendous crimes. Armed with the autopsy report, and the forensic evidence uncovered by the police, Dr Michael Hunter will take the viewer back over the last few days of Nicole’s life and try and unravel what happened on that fateful night. From how the stab wounds reveal the movements of the killer to the possibilities of illegal drugs; flaws in the collection of evidence and a history of domestic violence. Hunter uses this information to build up a profile of the killer. Alongside careful and detailed reconstructed drama scenes we talk to close friends, a psychologist and people who knew Nicole and OJ to painstakingly piece back together the nature of their complex relationship, to figure out who committed these crimes, and why.

Judy Garland was one of the world's most recognised talents and her legendary career in film and on stage spanned generations. As a child star she won millions of fans playing Dorothy in 'The Wizard of Oz' and she went on to pack movie theatres and concert halls with her extraordinary voice. But as well as being famous for her tremendous talent she was also known for her turbulent lifestyle and stormy love life. Not long after her wedding to fifth husband Mickey Deans, on June 22, 1969, she was discovered dead in her bathroom. Judy’s sudden death sparked rumour and speculation and now Forensic Pathologist, Dr. Michael Hunter, examines her medical records to reveal exactly what caused the demise of this legendary Hollywood superstar.

Steve McQueen was a legendary actor probably best known for his roles in ‘The Great Escape’, ‘The Magnificent Seven’ and ‘Bullitt’. By the mid 1970s, ‘The King of Cool’ was the world’s highest paid movie star but on November 7 1980 he died almost unrecognizable in a hospital bed in Mexico at just 50 years old. His death fuelled wild rumors and allegations of conspiracy. Forensic Pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter examines Steve’s extensive medical records to unravel the truth surrounding his death and attempts to reveal what really happened to this iconic star.

Richard Pryor's shockingly honest, no holds barred performances revolutionised American comedy. And his no holds barred attitude continued off screen with his monstrous appetite for drink, drugs and sex. But during the last part of his life Pryor was struck down with a debilitating illness which left him paralysed and unable to speak. Then, on December 10th, 2005, Richard Pryor dies from a cardiac arrest. But what killed him? Was it his wild past catching up with him? His debilitating illness? Or something else all together? Forensic Pathologist Dr. Michael Hunter will be examining Richard's medical records to determine precisely was caused the death of this much loved comedian.

Bob Marley was a musical revolutionary who brought reggae to the world stage. He was also known for his love of playing soccer and subscribing to the Rastafarian lifestyle which promoted healthy eating and living. But on May 11th, 1981 Bob Marley died in a Miami hospital at just 36 years of age. Widespread disbelief at his death meant conspiracy theories about a possible assassination quickly circulated. Now, over 30 years later, Forensic Pathologist Dr Michael Hunter is taking a fresh look at his medical records and examining eyewitness accounts to finally reveal what really caused the death of this musical icon.

Bernie Mac was one of the best-loved stand-up comedians of his generation. He worked his way out of poverty, spending 12 years performing in Chicago clubs before hitting the big time in the early 90’s as part of the Def Comedy Jam. After touring relentlessly, he eventually found mainstream success with a string of Hollywood movie roles and his own primetime TV show. But in July 2008 he was hospitalized with pneumonia. After 3 weeks in intensive care he died at the height of his career, aged 50. Now, Medical Examiner Dr. Michael Hunter is taking a fresh look at the death of a unique performer who was loved by millions.

Jimi Hendrix was one of the highest paid musicians in the world. At the age of 27 he had made 3 multi-million albums and had set the gold standard in rock music electric guitar. But he died in London on the September 18, 1970. The coroner concluded that he died after breathing in his own vomit. But, stating insufficient evidence of the circumstances surrounding his death, he returned an open verdict. Nearly half a century later, his death is still shrouded in mystery. Numerous conflicting accounts of his final hours have obscured the truth and fueled conspiracy theories about drugs overdose, suicide and murder. Now Medical Examiner Dr. Michael Hunter re-examines Hendrix’s death to cut through claim and counter claims and, using the medical evidence, determines precisely how he died.

Jim Morrison lead singer of the 1960’s band The Doors was one of rock’s most influential but controversial cult icons. His mesmerizing lyrics and vocals earned him critical acclaim and drew the admiration of an army of fans as his outrageous drink and drug fueled behavior, on and off stage, established his reputation as a rebel and trouble-maker. A biographer described him as “an angel in grace and a dog in heat”. But on July 3, 1971, Jim Morrison was found dead in the bathtub of his Paris apartment. He was just 27. The official cause was given as heart failure but many have dismissed this finding as a “fairy tale “ and his death still inspires rumor and conspiracy theory. Now medical examiner Dr. Michael Hunter re-opens the file.

In April 1994, the twenty seven year old musician and self styled prince of grunge, Kurt Cobain was found dead at his Seattle mansion with a gunshot wound to his head. A suicide note was found at the scene and the police quickly concluded that Kurt had taken his own life. But for more than twenty years controversy has raged over the cause of Kurt’s death with many claiming he had too much heroin in his system to have shot himself. Expert Coroner and Forensic Pathologist, Dr. Michael Hunter has examined all the available medical evidence and with testimony from family and friends to finally reveal the real cause of Kurt Cobain’s death.

Known affectionately as “The Last Great Rockstar”, grunge icon Scott Weiland died on December 3rd, 2015. The singer and songwriter was just 48. his death came suddenly while on the road with his new band The Wildabouts. Scott sold over 20 million records as lead singer of Stone Temple Pilots, and super-group Velvet Revolver, and he famously lived the rockstar lifestyle to the full. As sales skyrocketed he indulged in all the excesses that come with success in the music business, but all the time he was battling alcoholism and mental illness. At the height of his career he developed a devastating heroin addiction, and towards the end of his life his behaviour became increasingly unpredictable and erratic. The Examiner’s Report cites mixed drug toxicity as the cause of death - but there was no heroin found in Scott’s system, and renowned forensic pathologist Dr Michael Hunter believes that Scott’s well documented drug use doesn’t present the full picture. He investigates Scott’s troubled past and discovers a catalogue of traumatic events and dangerous activities in Scott’s lifestory. Together they created the circumstances for him to die suddenly and without warning on a cold winter’s day alone on his tour bus.

Christopher John Cornell was an American musician, singer and songwriter. He was best known as the lead vocalist for the rock bands Soundgarden and Audioslave. Cornell was considered one of the chief architects of the 1990s grunge movement, and is well known for his extensive catalog as a songwriter, his nearly four-octave vocal range, and his powerful vocal belting technique. Cornell struggled with depression for much of his life. He was found dead in his Detroit hotel room early on the morning of May 18, 2017, after performing at a Soundgarden concert an hour earlier.