In Los Angeles, the ‘Coroner to the Stars’ Has the Last Word

In Los Angeles, the County of Los Angeles Department of Medical Examiner, colloquially known as “the coroner to the stars,” handles the deaths of iconic figures such as Marilyn Monroe, The Notorious B.I.G., Whitney Houston, and Michael Jackson. In October, the sudden death of actor Matthew Perry added to the office’s list of high-profile cases. Despite dealing with typical incidents like traffic accidents, homicides, and drug overdoses, the unique challenges of Los Angeles include earthquakes, wildfires, riots, and the intense media scrutiny associated with celebrity deaths. Social media and entertainment sites amplify the demand for instant answers, making the office a focal point for fans and media alike.

The medical examiner’s office in Los Angeles has long been accustomed to the spotlight due to its Hollywood clientele. The proliferation of social media has only intensified the scrutiny, with media outlets closely monitoring the office’s activities and updates. The frenzy surrounding celebrity deaths involves outlets like TMZ, known for breaking news and sparking media frenzies. The article reflects on historical instances, such as the retrieval of Marilyn Monroe’s body in 1962, when the coroner’s office already held mystique, with investigators becoming unintentional celebrities in their own right.

The Los Angeles coroner’s office has a unique history, with some employees embracing the limelight. Figures like former chief medical examiner Thomas Noguchi, who wrote books on investigating star deaths, and deputy coroner Ed Winter, known for his interactions with the media, contribute to the office’s public image. The article also mentions the office’s unusual features, such as a gift shop called Skeletons in the Closet and its popularity as a pit stop for true crime enthusiasts. Actors like Brad Pitt and Hilary Swank have visited, and former investigators have transitioned to advising television shows and renting out morgue equipment to entertainment studios. Despite the celebrity encounters, employees like toxicologist Dan Anderson emphasize their commitment to treating all cases equally, whether they involve a John Doe or a well-known personality like Brittany Murphy.

For more information see Corina Knoll “In Los Angeles, the ‘Coroner to the Stars’ Has the Last Word”, The New York Times, December 10, 2023.

Special thanks to Lewis Saret (Attorney, Washington, D.C.) for bringing this article to my attention.