An inquest into the death of the renowned health broadcaster and doctor, Michael Mosley, has concluded with an open verdict, unable to definitively determine the cause of his death. The 67-year-old, celebrated for his science journalism and impactful health programs, went missing in early June while vacationing on the Greek island of Symi, sparking an extensive search.
Senior coroner Crispin Butler, presiding over the Buckinghamshire inquest, stated in his written findings that the cause of Dr. Michael Mosley’s death was “indeterminate” and “unascertainable.” The coroner suggested the death was “most likely attributable either to heatstroke (accidental) or non-identified pathological cause.” This open conclusion means the inquest found no evidence of homicide, suicide, or accidental death from injuries, but lacked sufficient evidence to specify the exact manner of death. The case remains open should further evidence emerge.
Dr. Mosley, a fixture in broadcasting for two decades, was widely recognized for his engaging programs focused on diet, exercise, and medicine. He was staying with family and friends on Symi and had travelled to Pedi Beach on June 5th. According to the inquest document, “Michael had intentionally left his mobile phone back at the house to prevent it getting wet on the ferry.” Later that day, he decided to walk back to their accommodation instead of taking the ferry.
The inquest findings detailed that Dr. Mosley set off with a rucksack, a litre of water, a biscuit, a hat, and an umbrella. He was described as appearing “energetic and cheerful” as he began his walk. Despite the search efforts, his body was discovered near a fence, approximately a 30-minute walk from Pedi, his last known location. This rocky area was close to Agia Marina Beach.
Mr. Butler noted that Dr. Mosley collapsed and died on the same day he went missing. “There had been high temperatures during this time,” he added, reinforcing the possibility of heatstroke as a contributing factor. Toxicology results revealed “nothing of note,” and the coroner concluded that Dr. Mosley’s death “may have been due to a medical event or as a result of a non-traumatic accident.”
Greek authorities mobilized a comprehensive search operation, involving police, firefighters, divers, and helicopter support. A preliminary post-mortem examination conducted in Greece in June initially suggested natural causes as the reason for death. Konstantia Dimoglidou, a Greek police spokeswoman, informed the BBC that the post-mortem found no injuries on Dr. Mosley’s body that could have caused his death.
Dr. Mosley’s wife, Dr. Claire Mosley, previously expressed her profound gratitude for the overwhelming public support following her husband’s death. Michael Mosley, the doctor and broadcaster, was the face of popular TV series such as “Trust Me I’m a Doctor” and “The Truth about Exercise.” His BBC Radio 4 series, “Just One Thing,” garnered a global audience of 25 million listeners. Millions more recognized him from his regular appearances offering health advice on BBC One’s “The One Show” and ITV’s “This Morning.” He was also widely known for popularizing the 5:2 diet and the Fast 800 diet, advocating for intermittent fasting and low-carbohydrate eating plans. His contributions to public health education have left a lasting impact.
