Key Facts at a Glance
Below are the most frequently asked core attributes about Whitney Houston’s final day and age, drawn from publicly available official records and reputable biographies. For clarity and quick reference, each item links to the detailed explanation that follows.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Date of Death | February 11, 2012 | Coroner/Medical Examiner Report |
| Age at Death | 48 years old | Official Records & Biography |
| Location | Beverly Hills Hotel, Beverly Hills, California, USA | Law Enforcement and Coroner Reports |
| Reported Cause of Death | Drowning, with contributing factors of coronary artery disease and cocaine use | Los Angeles County Coroner’s Final Report |
| Burial | Public visitation February 10, 2012; private funeral February 18, 2012; burial at Fairview Cemetery, Westfield, New Jersey | Funeral Home and Cemetery Records |
Direct Answer to the Core Question
Whitney Houston died on February 11, 2012, at the age of 48. She was found unresponsive in a bathtub at the Beverly Hills Hotel in Beverly Hills, California. The Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office later reported her official cause of death as drowning, with coronary artery disease and cocaine use listed as contributing factors. Her passing marked the end of a transformative career that spanned more than three decades.
Timeline of Final Hours and Days
Understanding the timeline helps clarify common questions around her last hours, the discovery, and the subsequent official processes. These points are drawn from law enforcement and coroner summaries released after her death.
- February 10, 2012 (afternoon): Houston was reportedly seen on the Beverly Hills Hotel property; public visitation arrangements were prepared.
- February 10, 2012 (evening): Family and close associates held a private gathering; she was found unresponsive late in the evening.
- February 11, 2012 (early morning): Emergency services responded; she was pronounced dead at the scene by medical personnel.
- February 11–18, 2012: Toxicology and autopsy procedures were conducted; results were gradually released by the coroner.
- February 18, 2012: Private funeral service held in New Jersey; burial followed at Fairview Cemetery.
Biographical Context and Career Highlights
Placing her death within the arc of her life and work explains why the news resonated globally. Born on August 9, 1963, in Newark, New Jersey, Houston emerged through her mother’s church choir and early gospel influences before signing with Arista Records. Her breakthrough came with the album Whitney Houston (1985) and the film The Bodyguard (1992), producing iconic singles and multi-platinum success. Even amid personal challenges in the 2000s, she remained a benchmark of vocal excellence and sold an estimated 200 million records worldwide, making her one of the best-selling music artists of all time.
Verified Details: Death, Age, and Medical Findings
Official records provide the numeric facts behind the headlines. Law enforcement logs, coroner reports, and court filings collectively confirm her age and the circumstances recorded at the time of discovery and subsequently in the final ruling.
| Metric | Estimate or Range | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Date of Birth | August 9, 1963 | Birth Certificate and Public Records |
| Age at Death | 48 | Calculated from dates above |
| Date of Death | February 11, 2012 | Coroner’s Report |
| Reported BAC and Drug Findings | Cocaine present; other substances not a primary factor | Coroner’s Toxicology Report |
| Location of Death | Beverly Hills Hotel, Beverly Hills, CA | Law Enforcement Report |
Common Misconceptions and Clarifications
Over time, rumors and incomplete reporting can blur the established record. The following clarifications are based on official statements and repeated confirmations from authoritative bodies.
- Misconception: The cause was purely accidental with no underlying health factors. Clarification: The coroner noted pre-existing coronary artery disease alongside acute drowning and cocaine presence.
- Misconception: She died at home. Clarification: She was at the Beverly Hills Hotel, where she had stayed the night.
- Misconception: Autopsy and toxicology were completed within days. Clarification: Detailed toxicology can take weeks; the final ruling was issued after thorough review.
Legacy and Lasting Impact
Houston’s death prompted widespread reflection on her artistic achievements and personal struggles. Her influence extends across generations of vocalists and remains a touchstone in conversations about fame, mental health, and addiction. Industry tributes, documentaries, and continued streaming numbers illustrate how her work continues to reach new audiences long after her passing, reinforcing her status as a defining voice in popular music history.
Reliable Sources and Further Verification
Key facts above are supported by coroner reports, law enforcement records, and authoritative biographies. For readers who wish to review primary documents or compare details independently, the following institutions and materials are commonly cited: Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office releases, New Jersey burial records, and official statements from Arista Records and the Estate of Whitney Houston.
When seeking ongoing updates about estate activities or posthumous releases, prioritize official channels such as the Estate’s verified communications and recognized music industry trade outlets, which help distinguish confirmed information from speculation.
Conclusion
Whitney Houston died on February 11, 2012, at age 48. The established facts—date, location, and medical findings—remain consistent across official reports. By centering verified records and clarifying common misunderstandings, this profile offers a durable reference that readers can rely on for years to come.