Michael Jackson Autopsy Reveals Star Was Healthy Prior to Death

Michael Jackson was for the most part healthy at the time of his death on June 25th, the Associated Press writes after obtaining a copy of the still-unreleased autopsy report. Despite rumors that Jackson appeared gaunt and was "listless" at rehearsals in the weeks leading up to his death, the autopsy findings reveal that Jackson weighed 136 pounds, within the normal range of a 5' 9'' man, and that "his heart was strong with no sign of plaque buildup," the AP writes. Jackson's other major organs were also found to be normal.

Look back at Jackson's career, in photos.

The autopsy found that Jackson did suffer from a condition that made his lungs "chronically inflamed and had reduced capacity that might have left him short of breath," but this didn't contribute to the singer's death. Furthermore, Jackson also had arthritis in his lower back and fingers, plus some plaque buildup in his lower legs. The autopsy did uncover needle marks all over Jackson's arms, scarring on his face and neck and tattooed eyebrows and lips. Jackson's ribs were crack and chest bruised from attempts to resuscitate the singer.

Michael Jackson fans react to the star's death: photos.

As Rolling Stone previously reported, Jackson's death was ruled a homicide due to "acute Propofol intoxication." A number of other drugs, including Midazolam (Versed), Diazepam (Valium), Lidocaine and Ephedrine were also found in Jackson's system, even though doctors aren't supposed to mix the Propofol with the other benzodiazepines. Thus far, no charges have been filed against Jackson's personal physician, Dr. Conrad Murray, although investigators are reportedly still gathering evidence regarding the case.

Related Stories:
• Michael Jackson's Death Officially Ruled Homicide
• Warrant Reveals Jackson Likely Died After Dose of Propofol; Coroner Declares Death Homicide
• Michael Jackson Investigation's Lone Focus Turns to Dr. Murray

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Song Stories

“Youth Knows No Pain”

Lykke Li | 2011

“Like on 'Youth Knows No Pain' — we are the ones that should demonstrate, because we can take it,” Likke Li said. “We can pierce ourselves, take Ecstasy, dance all night and still go to work at our McDonald's jobs.” Despite the hedonistic sentiment in the song, the Swedish singer also admitted in hindsight her youth had repercussions. “I remember when I was 18-19 and feeling that I know it all,” Li said. “I always feel that I know it all. But that song is about realizing you don’t, and reflecting, ‘Boy, if I only knew what would follow.’”

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