Ken Ober was a popular game show host, comedian, and actor who hosted the 1980s MTV game show “Remote Control” and helped produce the shows “Mind of Mencia” and “The New Adventures of Old Christine”. He died at his home in Santa Monica on November 15, 2009, at the age of 52. His death shocked and saddened many fans and celebrities who remembered him as a funny and talented person. But what was the cause of his death? How did he die so suddenly and unexpectedly?
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The Symptoms and the Discovery
According to his agent, Lee Kernis, Ober complained of headaches and flu-like symptoms on Saturday night before his death. He said he was going to take some medication and rest. The next day, he was found dead in his home by his friends who went to check on him. No foul play was suspected, no suicide, it looked like natural causes, just no one knew the exact cause yet.
The Autopsy and the Diagnosis
After an autopsy, it was confirmed by the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner-Coroner that Ober died of natural causes, chiefly ischemic heart disease, and atherosclerotic coronary artery disease. Ischemic heart disease is a condition in which the blood supply to the heart is reduced due to narrowed or blocked arteries. Atherosclerotic coronary artery disease is a type of ischemic heart disease that involves the buildup of plaque in the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart. These conditions can lead to chest pain, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, and heart attack.
The Risk Factors and the Prevention
Ober’s death was a tragic reminder of the importance of heart health and the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Some of the risk factors for developing ischemic heart disease and atherosclerotic coronary artery disease include age, gender, family history, smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, physical inactivity, and stress. Some of these factors are not modifiable, but others can be controlled or reduced by making healthy lifestyle choices such as quitting smoking, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, managing stress, and taking prescribed medications.
The Legacy and the Tribute
Ober left behind a legacy of laughter and entertainment for millions of people who watched his shows and enjoyed his humor. He was best known for hosting “Remote Control”, which was MTV’s first original non-musical program and featured trivia questions about pop culture from categories such as “Dead or Canadian?” The show also helped launch the careers of comedians Adam Sandler, Denis Leary, Colin Quinn, and Kari Wuhrer. Ober also hosted other game shows such as “Make Me Laugh”, “Smush”, and “Perfect Match”. He also starred in the Blues Traveler video for the song “Hook” and served as a producer for several comedy shows.
Many celebrities paid tribute to Ober after his death, expressing their condolences and admiration for him. Adam Sandler said he was “one of the funniest guys I ever knew” and Denis Leary called him “one of my closest friends in this business”. Colin Quinn said he was “a great guy” who “made me laugh every time I saw him”. Kari Wuhrer said he was “a sweet man” who “always made me smile”. Other stars such as Jimmy Kimmel, Sarah Silverman, Jon Stewart, Ben Stiller, Seth Meyers, Andy Richter, and Conan O’Brien also shared their memories and appreciation for Ober.
Ken Ober was a beloved game show host, comedian, and actor who died too soon from natural causes related to his heart. He will be remembered for his wit, charm, and talent that made many people happy. He was a true pioneer of MTV and a legend of comedy. Rest in peace, Ken Ober.
