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

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.

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.

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.