Musicians & Composers · 20th Century
Nat King Cole’s Last Words
“I'm not afraid to die anymore.”— Nat King Cole, February 15, 1965
Who Was Nat King Cole?
Nat King Cole was one of the most beloved voices in American music, known for Unforgettable, Mona Lisa, and The Christmas Song. He was also the first African American to host a national TV variety show.
The Final Moments
Cole died at St. John's Hospital in Santa Monica. He had been a heavy smoker and was diagnosed with lung cancer too late for treatment.
Are These Words Verified?
Reported by his wife Maria who was present during his final illness. The statement appears in her memoir and is plausible, though not corroborated by multiple independent sources.
Sources
- firsthand Maria Cole (wife) memoir
- biography Daniel Mark Epstein's Nat King Cole
- other Contemporary hospital accounts
Legacy
Cole's velvet voice and crossover success broke racial barriers. His daughter Natalie's digital duet of Unforgettable introduced him to new generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Nat King Cole’s last words?
“I'm not afraid to die anymore.”
How did Nat King Cole die?
Nat King Cole died on February 15, 1965 at the age of 45. Cause of death: Lung cancer.
Were Nat King Cole’s last words documented?
Reported by his wife Maria who was present during his final illness. The statement appears in her memoir and is plausible, though not corroborated by multiple independent sources.