Ryan O’Neal’s cause of death has been revealed following his Dec. 8 passing at the age of 82.
According to the actor’s death certificate, which was obtained by the Blast on Friday, he died of congestive heart failure after suffering from cardiomyopathy for years
He was hospitalized at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, Calif., when he passed.
The death certificate lists no other contributing factors.
The “Love Story” star is buried at Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park & Mortuary.
Per Yale Medicine, congestive heart failure refers to the heart’s inability to meet the body’s need for blood.
As the heart weakens, blood begins to back up and force liquid through the capillary walls, which results in a buildup of fluid in the appendages and organs.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cardiomyopathy refers to a collection of diverse heart conditions which cause the muscle to thicken, stiffen, thin out or fill with bodily substances.
Cardiomyopathy can be acquired or developed.
Ryan’s son Patrick O’Neal announced his father’s passing via a heartfelt Instagram tribute.
“So this is the toughest thing I’ve ever had to say but here we go. My dad passed away peacefully today, with his loving team by his side supporting him and loving him as he would us,” the sportscaster, 56, captioned a photo of a sunset.
