Mold May Be Culprit Behind Murphy, Monjack Deaths

Environmental factors could have played a role in the premature deaths of actress Brittany Murphy and her husband, screenwriter Simon Monjack.

According to TMZ, the couple had mold in their home. Authorities are now investigating whether the infestation weakened their respiratory systems. Both Murphy and Monjack died from complications of pneumonia and medication.

Actually, this isn’t all that new of an idea. Mold first surfaced as a possible culprit in Murphy’s December 2009 death before it was dropped until Monjack suddenly died last May. But this is the first time Murphy’s mother, Sharon, who lived with the couple, has agreed to let authorities examine her house.

A prolific childhood star, Murphy, 32, was probably best known for her roles in Clueless, Sin City, and 8 Mile. She also received acclaim for her vocal talent in music and animation. Monjack, 39, was famous as the writer of Factory Girl and Two Days, Nine Lives. They married in 2007.

Correction: A previous version of this article stated the California Department of Health was investigating the likelihood of mold in the deaths of Simon Monjack and Brittany Murphy. The CDH does not investigate residential mold problems, but it will refer people to the Indoor Air Quality Program and a directory of commercial companies that provide tests for mold.