Marilyn Monroe's coroner 'stands by findings' despite theories surrounding her death investigation

Dr Thomas Noguchi defended his conclusions, saying his job was to reach a scientific determination of the cause of death rather than speculate
Thomas Noguchi said Marilyn Monroe's case was thoroughly investigated despite conspiracy theories (Baron/Hulton Archive/Getty Images)
Thomas Noguchi said Marilyn Monroe's case was thoroughly investigated despite conspiracy theories (Baron/Hulton Archive/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Dr Thomas Noguchi, the chief medical examiner who performed Marilyn Monroe's autopsy, has stood by his conclusions regarding the Hollywood icon's death.

Monroe was just 36 when she died at her Los Angeles home in August 1962. Following her death, authorities determined that there was no evidence of foul play.

Dr Thomas Noguchi defends Marilyn Monroe investigation

Now, Noguchi, who is at the center of the upcoming documentary 'Coroner to the Stars,' has shed light on the case.

(Original Caption) 1954...Marilyn Monroe entertaining U.S. troops in South Korea. She is showing her left profile in this full length photograph.
Marilyn Monroe entertaining US troops in South Korea (Getty Images) 

He told Variety, “It was a challenging assignment. We conducted not only a coroner’s investigation but requested to have a panel of experts on self harm prevention and determination, and that way [there was] a more scientific determination.”

However, over the years, several conspiracy theories have emerged, alleging foul play and claiming that Monroe was actually murdered. 

Some theories even claim that the icon's killing was carried out by FBI and CIA agents, who were allegedly tasked with covering up her alleged affair with Robert F Kennedy. 

New documentary questions Marilyn Monroe investigation

Most recently, 'Celebrity Crime Scene: Marilyn Monroe', TMZ's new Fox primetime show, which aired on June 21, questioned Monroe's death investigation.



Retired detective Paul Holes reportedly said on the show, “There are very few photos of the scene. However, even with the one photograph that exists, showing her in her own bed, my eyes, based on my experience and expertise, immediately picked out inconsistencies, such as the sheets being [clean and] perfect. She's arranged on the bed in such a way that it doesn't look like an overdose [to me].”

Thomas Noguchi rejects Marilyn Monroe conspiracy theories

But Noguchi has defended his conclusions. “It’s my job to conduct an investigation and an autopsy, and to come to a scientific determination of the cause of death rather than speculation,” he added.

Marilyn Monroe died in 1962 (Getty Images)
Marilyn Monroe died in 1962 (Getty Images)

Noguchi further noted that he understands people’s differing opinions, but his “conclusions were based on the medical and forensic evidence available to me at the time, and those conclusions are reflected in the official autopsy reports. After all these years, I continue to stand by those findings.”

“Whether the case involved a famous person or an unknown citizen, the duty was always the same,” he asserted.

GET BREAKING U.S. NEWS & POLITICAL UPDATES
STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX.

MORE STORIES

Ortiz had previously pleaded not guilty to the attempted-killing charge and the other felony allegations filed against her in March
1 hour ago
Dylan Sprouse called watching his daughter open her eyes, smile and interact with him 'the coolest thing ever'
17 hours ago
Quavo said having a daughter has given him 'a new hunger' and 'a new fire,' adding that he is proud to finally experience fatherhood
17 hours ago
Sean 'Diddy' Combs was sentenced to 50 months in prison after being convicted in July 2025
18 hours ago
Dennis Haskins was remembered by his co-stars as ‘a fabulous person’ and ‘a loyal friend.’
18 hours ago
Chad Lowe’s family mourned Fiona, describing her as a loving, smart and creative girl who loved dancing and was the light of their lives
19 hours ago
Named after Dolly Parton’s 1971 song 'Coat of Many Colors,' the museum features several significant pieces from her personal and professional life
19 hours ago
Charles Kelley said that he would continue working and approach treatment the way he handled sobriety journey in the past.
20 hours ago
The 'Where's My Husband?' singer clarified that the 'Sinners' actor is 'just a friend' amid ongoing dating rumors.
20 hours ago
Jesse Williams hinted at the newborn’s arrival in a playful Instagram post, reenacting a scene from Spike Lee’s 1989 film 'Do the Right Thing'
20 hours ago