Corey Haim's Tragic Death: Pneumonia, Not Overdose, Ruled as Official Cause

16 years after the former teen idol's passing, the full details behind the actor's untimely demise have been revealed.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Corey Haim, the beloved '80s teen star known for films like The Lost Boys and License to Drive, tragically passed away at the age of 38 on March 10, 2010. While there was initial speculation that substance abuse was the cause, an autopsy report later revealed that Haim's death was due to respiratory distress caused by pneumonia. The report also found that Haim had an enlarged heart and narrowed blood vessels, contributing factors to his passing.

Why it matters

Haim's death at the height of his fame shone a light on the challenges many young actors face with addiction and mental health issues. His story serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of child stardom and the importance of providing proper support systems for vulnerable individuals in the entertainment industry.

The details

In the days leading up to his death, Haim had been experiencing flu-like symptoms. On the night he passed, his mother found him unresponsive after he had difficulty breathing and collapsed. The autopsy report showed that while low levels of various medications were found in Haim's system, they did not directly contribute to his death. Instead, the medical examiner determined that Haim's cause of death was natural, due to the pneumonia and his underlying heart condition.

  • Corey Haim died on March 10, 2010.
  • The autopsy report was released in March 2010.

The players

Corey Haim

A former teen idol and actor known for his roles in 1980s classics like The Lost Boys and License to Drive. Haim struggled with drug addiction throughout his life.

Corey Feldman

Haim's longtime co-star and friend, who penned a touching tribute to the late actor after his passing.

Juan M. Carrillo

The deputy medical examiner who conducted Haim's autopsy and determined that his death was due to natural causes, specifically pneumonia.

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What they’re saying

“Nobody made me laugh the way Corey did. About two weeks before he died, he spent a weekend at my house and we had a party with friends. The next morning we were all sitting around in our robes and he gave me his hand and said, 'I just want to tell you how happy I am that we're able to have this time together. I can see the world through your eyes now, and it's pretty f---ing cool.'”

— Corey Feldman, Haim's longtime co-star and friend (Entertainment Weekly)

“His heart and his potential were only outmatched by his demons.”

— Troy Searer, Executive producer of The Two Coreys (Today)

What’s next

Haim's legacy continues to be honored by his former co-stars and colleagues, who remember the talented actor and the struggles he faced. His story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of providing support and resources for those in the entertainment industry who battle addiction and mental health issues.

The takeaway

Corey Haim's tragic passing at the height of his fame underscores the need for greater awareness and support for child stars and young actors who face immense pressures and challenges. His story highlights the complex reality behind the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, and the importance of prioritizing mental health and well-being in the entertainment industry.