Elvis actress and blues singer Shonka Dukureh's died of “hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease” reports have revealed.
According to the coroner's report which was obtained by US Weekly, the manner of death was listed as "natural". There had never been any foul play suspected in her death, as revealed by police at the time.
The latest report said the actress was "discovered unresponsive in bed by her minor son … [who] ran to the neighbours for help, who then called 911".
The star died at the age of 44 at her home in Nashville, Tennessee, on July 21. She is survived by her two young children.
As well as appearing in the Elvis biopic, Shonka had also previously starred in Doja Cat's Vegas music video, where she also appeared as Big Mama Thornton.
Following her death Elvis director Baz Luhrmann paid tribute to the star after she made her film debut in his production.
He took to Instagram to write: "A special light went out today and all of the Elvis movie family are heartbroken by the loss of Shonka Dukureh.
"From the moment she came into our world, Shonka brought joy, spirit and of course her voice and her music. Whenever she was on set, on stage or even just in the room, everyone always felt uplifted."
He continued: "Shonka was just starting to find a larger audience for her tremendous talent, and I got to see her uplift whole crowds of people at Coachella and beyond.
"A favorite word of Shonka's, in daily use, was 'blessings,' and I, along with the entire Elvis cast, crew and musical collaborators, feel truly blessed to have had time with her."
He concluded his post, which also featured photos of Shonka, including one of him on set with her, by writing: "We send all our love and support to Shonka’s children and family at this time."
Doja, who was born Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini, also took to the social media platform to pay tribute. She wrote: "Rest In Peace Shonka — an incredible talent taken from us too soon.
"Was a true honor getting to know her and I am so grateful to her for lending her incredible vocals to "Vegas." Her amazing performance in Elvis amongst her other artistry will live on. Sending my deepest condolences to her loved ones."
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