Leslie Jordan died of “sudden cardiac dysfunction,” according to a report obtained by Page Six from the Los Angeles Department of Medical Examiner-Coroner.
“Arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease,” also known as atherosclerosis, was listed as a secondary factor.
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, atherosclerosis is the thickening or hardening of the arteries, caused by a buildup of plaque.
The beloved “Will & Grace” actor crashed his vehicle in Hollywood on Oct. 24 after suffering a suspected medical emergency while driving. He was 67 years old.
A day after the fatal accident, it was reported that the “American Horror Story” star had been dealing with shortness of breath in the days leading up to his death.
Sources close to Jordan told TMZ on Oct. 25 that the comedian had been complaining about feeling unwell, and so he had an appointment scheduled with a cardiologist.
Aside from these breathing issues, the “Call Me Kat” star was reportedly known to have only had COVID-19 once and not any other major health concerns.
Amid the darkest days of the coronavirus pandemic, Jordan became a ray of light for many on social media with his viral videos.
While the TV star was hunkered down in his hometown of Chattanooga, Tenn., with his 84-year-old mother, he made people laugh with clips of himself chatting to the public in his signature Southern drawl.
In an interview with Page Six in April 2021, Jordan shared how becoming sober helped changed his life.
“I got into AA 22 years ago, and I was made to examine things,” he told us at the time. “I was made to write about my fears, about my beliefs, to find a god of my own understanding, and it’s getting rid of that fear, that burning lake of fear.
“I don’t know at what point, but here I am, 65, perfectly comfortable with who I am, what I am, and how did that happen? I think just living life and exploring things and reading things.”
He added, “It was a journey away from things that you were taught as a child. It’s in the seeking, that’s my faith and not thinking that I’m going to figure it out. It’s just an open heart.”
Jordan left a lasting impression in Hollywood, and many celebs honored him on social media after his death.
His “Will & Grace” co-star Sean Hayes tweeted, “My heart is broken. Leslie Jordan was one of the funniest people I ever had the pleasure of working with. Everyone who ever met him, loved him. There will never be anyone like him. A unique talent with an enormous, caring heart. You will be missed, my dear friend. 😔❤️.”
“Glee” star Kevin McHale added, “Leslie Jordan was as talented and genuine as they come. What a ray of sunshine. This is just terrible.”