What Was Billy Mays’ Cause of Death? Inside the Beloved OxiClean Pitchman’s Final Days

Billy Mays, the iconic OxiClean pitchman, left a lasting impact on television audiences with his energetic presence and booming voice. His sudden death at the age of 50 due to a heart attack in 2009 shocked fans worldwide. Mays’ journey to fame began on the Atlantic City boardwalk, where he honed his salesmanship skills amid challenging conditions. His breakthrough came in 2000 when he starred in a commercial for OxiClean, propelling him into the spotlight as a renowned infomercial star.

Throughout his career, Mays endorsed a variety of products, from household cleaners like Kaboom to innovative solutions like Mighty Putty. His signature catchphrase, “Hi, Billy Mays here!” endeared him to audiences and established him as a trusted figure in the world of infomercials. Despite his larger-than-life persona on screen, Mays was known for his unwavering dedication to the products he promoted and his relentless work ethic.

Tragedy struck on June 28, 2009, when Mays was found unresponsive in his Tampa home by his wife, Deborah. The official cause of death, as determined by the Hillsborough County Medical Examiner, was heart disease. However, a subsequent toxicology report revealed the presence of cocaine in Mays’ system, raising questions about the circumstances surrounding his passing. His family disputed these findings, commissioning an independent autopsy that refuted the initial claims of drug involvement.

Speculation initially arose that Mays’ death could have been linked to head trauma sustained during a turbulent plane landing the day before. However, subsequent investigations ruled out this possibility. Despite the controversies surrounding his cause of death, Mays’ legacy as a pioneering pitchman and beloved television personality endures. Friends, family, and fans alike mourned his loss, remembering him for his distinctive voice and unwavering passion for his craft.

In the aftermath of Mays’ untimely passing, his colleague Anthony Sullivan stepped in to continue their work together, ensuring that Mays’ legacy lived on. Infomercials featuring Mays continued to air following his death, with a surge in sales reported for the products he endorsed. While the circumstances of his demise remain shrouded in mystery, Mays’ impact on the world of televised advertising remains indelible.

Sixteen years on from his death, Billy Mays’ memory lives on through his family, including his son Billy Mays III, who upholds his father’s legacy with pride. Reflecting on his father’s enduring influence, Billy Mays III cherishes the memories of their time together and the lessons learned from the advertising legend. As fans continue to pay tribute to Billy Mays through gestures like leaving OxiClean bottles at his grave, his legacy as a pioneering pitchman continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.