Channel 5 will air a new episode of its documentary series Cause of Death tonight at 9pm (October 7), following a two-year wait for viewers. The broadcaster quietly added a new series last month, with tonight's instalment being the second episode.
First released in 2022, Cause of Death offers access to real-life coronial investigations after sudden, unexpected, or unexplained deaths. The series follows cases from the first emergency call through post-mortem examination to the final inquest, with each episode examining a different case.
Investigation into Danny Nicholls' death
Tonight's episode focuses on the death of Danny Nicholls, who was 16 years old when he was found on the living room floor by his sister. With no signs of a break-in or evidence of an assault, his family sought answers about why his heart could have stopped suddenly.
The official synopsis reads: "When 16-year-old Danny Nicholls is found dead at home with no obvious cause, a painstaking medical investigation begins to uncover what stopped the seemingly healthy teenager's heart without warning."
Margaret Charnley's story
The episode also follows Margaret Charnley, whose family faces the decision of whether to honour her wishes to become an organ donor after a serious fall and cardiac arrest. Forensic pathologist Dr Richard Shepherd offers insight into both cases.
The instalment hears from Danny's mum Lorraine, who said she had a "really strange feeling" before heading off to work.
Viewer response
The series has been described by fans as a "fantastic series" that "looks so, so interesting", with many reduced to tears after last week's instalment. One viewer added: "This was such a heartbreaking watch."
Cause of Death airs tonight at 9pm on Channel 5.
