What Really Caused Norman Lear’s Death

The cause of death for Norman Lear has now been determined.

According to Norman Lear’s death certificate acquired by TMZ two weeks after the iconic television producer died at the age of 101, his cause of death was heart arrest. According to the site, the paper also states congestive heart disease as an underlying cause of death.

Lear’s family earlier reported the famed screenwriter and producer died on December 5 while surrounded by loved ones.

“Norman lived a life in awe of the world around him,” his family said on his official Instagram page on December 6. “He marveled at his cup of coffee every morning, the shape of the tree outside his window, and the sounds of beautiful music.”

“But it was people—those he had just met and those he had known for decades—who kept his mind and heart forever young,” they said. We would want to thank everyone for their love and support as we honor his legacy and reflect on the next chapter of our lives without him.”

Shortly after his death, Norman Lear, the creator of legendary comedies All in the Family, The Jeffersons, and others, was recognized by his peers, colleagues, and stars, including Jimmy Kimmel, who highlighted his effect on them.

“He changed situation comedy in the best possible way, he taught us so much about so many serious things—always making us laugh while he did it,” the comic remarked on Jimmy Kimmel Live! on December 6, “and everyone who works in or even watches television owes him a great debt.” “Particularly me. 101 years and it still wasn’t enough. We were all fortunate to have him. I hope we will never forget him or the numerous things he taught us.”