Lamar Odom Reflects on 'Afterlife' Experience After 2015 Overdose

The former NBA star opens up about his near-death experience and ongoing battle with addiction in an upcoming Netflix documentary.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In 2015, Lamar Odom suffered 12 strokes, six heart attacks and kidney failure following a near-fatal overdose at a brothel in Nevada. Miraculously, he survived - but in an upcoming episode of Netflix's Untold, titled The Death & Life of Lamar Odom, the former basketball pro says he experienced the 'afterlife' during his coma. Odom has been candid about his years-long battle with addiction, primarily to cocaine, and how it led to his overdose.

Why it matters

Odom's story sheds light on the devastating impact of addiction and the challenges of recovery, even for high-profile athletes. His willingness to be open about his experiences can help raise awareness and reduce stigma around substance abuse issues.

The details

On October 13, 2015, Odom was rushed to the hospital after he was found unconscious in a VIP suite at the Love Ranch brothel in Crystal, Nevada. Cocaine and opiates were discovered in his system. Odom was hospitalized in critical condition and spent approximately three to four days on life support, during which time he suffered multiple strokes and heart attacks. Odom later claimed that drugs were 'slipped' into his drink at the brothel.

  • On October 13, 2015, Odom was found unconscious at the Love Ranch brothel.
  • Odom spent approximately three to four days on life support following his overdose.
  • In January 2026, Odom was arrested for DUI and voluntarily entered a 30-day in-patient rehab facility.

The players

Lamar Odom

A former professional basketball player who suffered a near-fatal overdose in 2015 and has been open about his long-term battle with addiction.

Khloé Kardashian

Odom's ex-wife, who was by his side when he awoke from his coma in 2015.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The afterlife is not what people make it out to be.”

— Lamar Odom (Untold)

“He would escape rehab and go on a drug bender, and no one could find him. I just felt such a responsibility to cover this up and protect him.”

— Khloé Kardashian (Untold)

“Now, my mission is probably to help people who have the same problem who couldn't help themselves be able to understand addiction and understand that it's a brain disease.”

— Lamar Odom (The Kyle & Jackie O Show)

What’s next

Odom's upcoming appearance in the Netflix documentary 'Untold: The Death & Life of Lamar Odom' is expected to provide further insight into his near-death experience and ongoing recovery.

The takeaway

Lamar Odom's story serves as a powerful reminder of the devastating impact of addiction, even for high-profile athletes, and the importance of seeking help and support. His willingness to be open about his struggles can help reduce stigma and inspire others facing similar challenges.