Cause of Death
Nat King Cole died of lung cancer on February 15, 1965. He was diagnosed with the disease and underwent treatment, but the cancer progressed quickly.
Health and Smoking History
Cole was a longtime smoker, a habit strongly linked to his lung cancer. Smoking remains one of the leading causes of the disease.
Final Days and Legacy
He continued performing until shortly before his death at age 45. His passing highlighted the dangers of smoking and raised awareness about lung cancer.
For more details on his life and cause of death, see the biography at Britannica.
