The tragic death of Anne Heche, Ellen DeGeneres’ ex-girlfriend, two years ago left many shocked and searching for answers. The accomplished actress, known for her roles in Wag the Dog, Return to Paradise, and I Know What You Did Last Summer, passed away in August 2022 under harrowing circumstances in Los Angeles.
For those seeking clarity on the events surrounding Anne Heche’s tragic death, here’s a concise look at what happened and its aftermath.
Ellen Degeneres’ ex-girlfriend Anne Heche’s death in 2022
Anne Heche, an award-winning actress known for her performances in projects such as Donnie Brasco and Six Days, Seven Nights, tragically passed away in August 2022, at the age of 53.
On August 5, 2022, her car crashed into a house in Los Angeles’ Mar Vista neighborhood, sparking a massive fire. Both the vehicle and the home were heavily damaged. Heche suffered anoxic brain damage and was declared brain-dead a week later. She remained on life support until August 14 to allow for organ donation.
Heche’s high-profile relationship with Ellen DeGeneres from 1997 to 2000 was one of the first openly same-sex Hollywood romances, receiving intense public scrutiny. While their relationship ended over 20 years before Heche’s death, DeGeneres publicly expressed her sympathy, saying, “This is a sad day. I’m sending Anne’s children, family, and friends all of my love” (via Entertainment Weekly). Heche’s personal struggles with mental health and substance use often eclipsed her professional success during her lifetime.
Law enforcement initially suspected DUI at the time of the crash. Toxicology reports showed narcotics in Heche’s system, but the final coroner’s report found no active impairment (via E! News). Her death was ruled accidental, caused by inhalation and thermal injuries, with blunt force trauma contributing significantly.
Heche left behind two sons: Homer, now 22, and Atlas, now 15. After her death, a legal dispute over her estate arose between Homer and her former partner James Tupper. Despite these challenges, Heche’s legacy in film and television highlights her enduring talent and resilience.