Irene Cara's cause of death was finally indicated on official documents months after her death.
Cara, the singer who famously sang the title tracks for "Fame" and "Flashdance," died on Nov. 25 at the age of 63. Her publicist, Judith A. Moose, spoke on behalf of her bereaved family and announced her death through a Twitter post at that time.
"It is with profound sadness that, on behalf of her family I announce the passing of Irene Cara," it read. "The Academy Award-winning actress, singer, songwriter and producer passed away in her Florida home. Irene's family has requested privacy as they process their grief."
The initial statement did not contain information about the singer's passing, including whether foul play was involved or if she died peacefully in her sleep.
This is the absolute worst part of being a publicist. I can't believe I've had to write this, let alone release the news. Please share your thoughts and memories of Irene. I'll be reading each and every one of them and know she'll be smiling from Heaven. She adored her fans. - JM pic.twitter.com/TsC5BwZ3fh
— Irene Cara (@Irene_Cara) November 26, 2022
Months after Cara's untimely death, the medical examiner in Pinellas County released the official medical documents containing more details about the event.
The files, obtained by a news outlet, revealed that no foul play or accident was involved. The office ruled that Cara's official causes of death are Arteriosclerotic and Hypertensive Cardiovascular Disease.
It also noted that the singer was diabetic in the years leading to her death.
The NHS defines atherosclerosis, or arteriosclerosis, as a serious condition when arteries become clogged due to plaques or atheroma. These fatty substances cause a person's arteries to harden and narrow. As a result, the condition ultimately restricts blood flow and oxygen supply.
Meanwhile, hypertensive heart disease is a long-term condition that develops in people with high blood pressure. Cleveland Clinic says it is a group of medical problems that arise when hypertension is not managed.
Irene Cara's Cause of Death Bombarded With Rumors
Before the documents were released, the lack of information about her cause of death caused the public to create rumors, with some even suggesting she died because of a vaccine.
Cara's family eventually addressed the buzz and debunked the claims. They added that they did not have medical answers yet but pledged to share an update once the autopsy had been completed.
The late singer famously started her career in the 1980 musical, "Fame." She starred as Coco Hernandez and recorded its title track.
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Her notable performance in the flick led her to score several accolades, including nominations at the Grammy Awards for Best New Artist and Best Pop Vocal Performance (Female) during its 23rd annual ceremony in 1981.
Cara's participation in "Flashdance... What A Feeling" also strengthened her skyrocketing career. The song she made for the project earned her the Best Pop Vocal Performance (Female) and Best Album of Original Score Written For a Motion Picture or a Television at the 26th Annual Grammy Awards in 1984.
The same song brought home the Best Original Song from the 1983 Oscars ceremony.
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