Ep 9. Tom Petty: Mysterious Ending

Tom Petty was undeniably one of the biggest icons of rock and roll. He embodied rock and roll's spirit with his unique voice and timeless hits like "Free Fallin'" and "I Won't Back Down". However, when Tom Petty died in October 2017, the world was left shocked and saddened. The cause of his death was initially shrouded in mystery, leading to countless questions and theories. In How It Really Happened season 5 episode 9, titled "Tom Petty: Mysterious Ending", host Hill Harper takes a deep dive into the life, the music, and the mysterious death of the rock legend.

The episode begins with Hill Harper recounting the seemingly normal day that led up to Petty's untimely death. Petty had recently wrapped up a tour with his band, The Heartbreakers, and returned home to his Malibu mansion to enjoy some well-deserved downtime. However, on the night of October 1st, 2017, something went terribly wrong. Petty was found unconscious and barely breathing in his home, and despite efforts to save him, he passed away later that night. The news sent shockwaves through the music world, and fans were left with countless questions about what could have led to such a tragic end.

The episode then delves into Petty's upbringing and early life. Born in Gainesville, Florida, Petty's love for music began at a young age when he first heard Elvis Presley on the radio. He taught himself to play guitar and soon formed his first band, The Sundowners. After a stint in Los Angeles, Petty returned to Florida and formed The Heartbreakers, who would go on to become one of the most legendary rock bands of all time. With the help of archival footage and interviews with those who knew him best, the episode paints a picture of Petty as a deeply passionate musician who dedicated his life to his craft.

Next, the episode explores some of the theories surrounding Petty's death. As the news hit, rumors began to swirl about what could have caused the rock star's sudden demise. Was it a drug overdose? Suicide? And why was there so little information available about what had happened? Hill Harper speaks to experts in the medical field to understand some of the potential factors at play, such as Petty's history with drug use and the fact that he had recently undergone treatment for a broken hip. All of these factors contribute to a multifaceted understanding of one of music's greatest losses.

Throughout, the episode is interspersed with interviews from those who worked with Petty and knew him best. Fellow members of The Heartbreakers share their memories of working with him, while singer-songwriter Stevie Nicks opens up about their deep bond and how Petty helped her through some of the toughest moments of her life. These personal anecdotes help to illustrate the incredible impact that Petty had on the people around him, and how deeply he touched the lives of those who heard his music.

Overall, How It Really Happened season 5 episode 9 provides an intimate look at the life and legacy of Tom Petty, as well as the circumstances surrounding his mysterious death. Through deep dives into his history, his music, and the potential causes of his passing, the episode paints a vivid picture of one of the most beloved and influential musicians of all time. Fans of Petty and rock music alike will find much to love in this tribute episode, which celebrates the life of a true icon who left an indelible mark on the world.