Cory Monteith Reportedly Cremated After Lea Michele and Family Pay Final Respects

Actor's toxicology report revealed he died of a lethal mix of alcohol and heroin

By Lily Harrison Jul 17, 2013 7:26 PMTags
Cory MonteithAP Photo/Matt Sayles

After the tragic death of Cory Monteith last weekend, TMZ is reporting that the actor has been cremated at the request of his mother Ann.

Furthermore, a private viewing was reportedly held with the Glee star's mom, brother Shaun and girlfriend Lea Michele.

Cory's father, Joe, who split from Ann years ago, was said to be "devastated" after not being present for the family viewing.

"I always loved both my sons and am going to miss Cory very very much. I'm saddened at the fact that I couldn't have been there to see my son before he was cremated," he told the site.

On Tuesday, Michele's reps released a statement expressing gratitude for the ongoing support from family, friends and fans during the horribly sad ordeal.

"Lea is deeply grateful for all the love and support she's received," the statement to E! News said.

"Since Cory's passing, Lea has been grieving alongside his family and making appropriate arrangements with them. They are supporting each other as they endure this profound loss together. We continue to ask the media to respect the privacy of Lea and Cory's family."

After conducting an autopsy Monday, the BC Coroners Service announced Tuesday that Monteith died of mixed drug toxicity, a toxicology screening showing heroin and alcohol in his system.

FOX

"This was an overdose and a tragic accident," Vancouver Police Department spokesman Brian Montague said at a press conference following the release of the autopsy results.

Coroners Service spokeswoman Barb McClintock stated that the investigation into his death is ongoing and no further information will be released until its conclusion.

Michele's camp had previously spoken on the actress' behalf, asking only that "everyone kindly respect Lea's privacy during this devastating time."

She gushed about her boyfriend to E! News at the 12th annual Chrysalis Butterfly Ball last month. Referring to her dashing date, she said, "I think he looks great though, doesn't he? So handsome. He's the best."

Benefiting Chrysalis, a Los Angeles-based organization that helps homeless and those getting by on low incomes obtain employment, the event was Monteith's first red carpet since leaving rehab in April.

"Chrysalis is empowerment," told E! at the time. "It's not just a handout. It's empowerment. It's taking people who just need a help up."

If you or someone you know needs help with addiction issues, contact Narcotics Anonymous (https://www.na.org).