Coolio's cause of death: Grammy-winning rapper died of fentanyl overdose as heroin traces found in his system
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Grammy-winning rapper Coolio died of a fentanyl overdose, his family spokesperson has revealed. The 59-year-old was found dead at his friend's Los Angeles home in September 2022.
Coolio, whose real name is Artis Leon Ivey, was known for his hitmaker 'Gangsta's Paradise.' The toxicology report also found traces of heroin and methamphetamines in his system.
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‘He didn’t fear death': Coolio's son Artis Ivey says rapper died with ‘smile’ on his face
Coolio will be remembered by his family as 'the great man he was'
Family spokesman and Coolio's manager Jarel (Jarez) Posey confirmed to TMZ that investigators determined Coolio's severe asthma and decades-long use of cigarettes as major factors in his death. Besides, his body's inability to fight back was also noted. However, despite the reality attached to his death, Posey said that Coolio will be remembered by his children, Brandi, Jackie, Melan, Christopher, Artis III, Darius, and Artisha as "the great man he was." Posey also said that the public should know how much they loved him and how he conquered the world both on the stage and when he wasn't performing.
Coolio's family plans to honor his legacy through documentaries and films
To honor their father, Coolio's children, and family have made plans to screen documentaries and films on Coolio and carry forward his musical legacy. Initially, when Coolio was found dead, it was suspected that he has suffered a cardiac arrest, however, after months the real cause has been revealed even though no drugs were found at the scene.
From music to movies to becoming a celebrity chef
A skilled performer, Coolio appeared in a large number of movies and TV shows during the course of his career. According to his IMDb biography, he had three projects in development: Bobcat Moretti, It Wants Blood 2, and the TV movie Vegas High. As a result of his love for food, he trained as a chef and appeared on the websites 'Coolio's Rules' and 'Cookin' with Coolio.' He also participated as a celebrity contestant on the inaugural season of 'Rachael vs. Guy: Celebrity Cook-Off.'
The cast of the 'Ultimate Big Brother'
Besides his successful music career, Coolio became well known in the UK for his appearances on Channel 4 reality show 'Big Brother.' The rapper finished third in the sixth season of 'Celebrity Big Brother' in 2009, falling short of winners Ulrika Jonsson and Terry Christian, a presenter, and model. But, the following year in 2010, he also joined the cast of 'Ultimate Big Brother,' which was the final season of the Channel 4 program. Following a heated argument with participant Nadia Almada, Coolio shockingly left the 'Ultimate Big Brother' house, the Daily Mail reported.