UPDATE: Feb. 13, 12:27 p.m.: TMZ says the L.A. County
Coroner told Whitney Houston's family that the singer d”id not die from drowning, but rather
from what appears to be a combination of Xanax and other prescription drugs mixed with alcohol.”
Sources also told TMZ that the family was told there was not enough water
in Whitney's lungs to lead to the conclusion that she drowned, and Whitney may well have died before her head became submerged.
UPDATE, Feb. 11, 8:02 P.M.: The Recording Academy released this statement:
Six-time GRAMMY (r) winner Whitney Houston was one of the world's greatest pop singers of all time who leaves behind a robust musical soundtrack spanning the past three decades. Her powerful voice graced many memorable and award-winning songs. A light has been dimmed in our music community today, and we extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends, fans and all who have been touched by her beautiful voice.
Neil Portnow President/CEO The Recording Academy(r)
ORIGINAL POST, Feb. 11, 6:12 P.M.: Whitney Houston, 48, was found dead in a room at the Beverly Hilton Saturday afternoon. The circumstances surrounding her death have not yet been released.
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She was pronounced dead at 3:55 p.m. PST. Beverly Hills police Lt. Mark Rosen told CNN there were “no signs of criminal intent.” Houston's bodyguard is reported to have found the singer's body.
The singing superstar of the 1980s and 90's was staying at the Beverly Hills hotel and was planning to attend the annual pre-Grammy's party of Clive Davis, Houston's long-time mentor, reports the Los Angeles Times. Houston won six Grammy awards throughout her career, and the news of her death will likely be mourned at Sunday's ceremony.
She is best known for her hits such as, “I Will Always Love You,” and “How Will I Know,” along with her role in films like The Bodyguard. She sold over 200 million albums, won two Emmy awards and was a superstar in the 1980's and early 90's. Her carrer publicly stumbled over the years. It was marred with drug use, marital troubles with ex-husband Bobby Brown and erratic behavior, much of which was made public on the 2005 Bravo reality show, “Being Bobby Brown.”
Perez Hilton reported Houston's last performance was at the Kelly Price and Friends: For the Love of R&B Grammy Party at True Hollywood on Friday, where she performed, “Yes, Jesus Loved Me.”
Houston is survived by ex-husband Bobby Brown and Bobbi Kristina, her 18-year-old daughter. Check back for updates as they come.
