New Details Emerge Regarding Porn Star Jesse Jane's Untimely Death
Jesse Jane died at the age of 43 on January 24, 2024. She leaves behind a son, whom she gave birth to in 2000.
Updated July 17 2024, 4:28 p.m. ET
Beauty pageant contestant turned adult film star Jesse Jane was found dead in Oklahoma on Jan. 24, 2024. Following the news of her death, many who recognized Jesse's name were curious about what had happened to her, and what details about her death had been disclosed.
In July 2024, details surrounding Jesse Jane's cause of death were released, providing insight into the circumstances that led to the pornographic film star's untimely passing. Here's everything we know about Jesse's tragic death.
What was porn star Jesse Jane's cause of death?
Reporting in The Oklahoman suggested that Jesse, born Cynthia Ann Howell, and her boyfriend, Brett Hasenmueller, were found dead in their rental home in Moore, Okla. of a suspected drug overdose. In July 2024, new details emerged regarding their deaths. The two reportedly died as a result of an accidental drug overdose, with large amounts of fentanyl and cocaine in their systems.
According to the medical examiner’s report, a “white powdery substance” was found on a “tray next to the bed at the scene,” as reported by DailyMail. Jesse and her boyfriend were discovered “in a state of decomposition.” The report also indicated the presence of benzoylecgonine in her bloodstream and brain.
Additionally, the outlet noted that Jesse suffered from atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), characterized by plaque buildup in artery walls, according to the American Heart Association.
Jesse and Brett were discovered by police after his employer asked them to perform a welfare check, saying that they hadn't heard from him in a few days.
Following the news, many are looking back at Jesse's career and mourning her death at the young age of 43.
Where did Jesse Jane live?
Although she was originally from Forth Worth, Texas, Jesse had long called the area around Oklahoma City home. She began her work in adult films in 2002 when she signed a contract with Digital Playground. She announced her retirement from the industry 15 years later.
In the porn world, she is likely best known for the Pirates franchise, which included Pirates II, a film that is widely considered to be the most expensive ever made in the genre at $8 million.
In addition to working as a porn star, Jesse also had some small roles in Hollywood during her career. She appeared in the 2004 remake of Starsky and Hutch, Entourage, and Adam Sandler's 2011 vehicle Bucky Larson: Born to Be a Star. Jesse also had a brief relationship with Kid Rock.
Oklahoma locals also mourned Jesse Jane's boyfriend Brett's death.
Although Brett didn't have the same profile as his girlfriend, he has been celebrated in Oklahoma, including in a lengthy post from a local bar.
"Always ready with a smile, a comforting hug, and a collection of dad jokes, he became an integral part of our Mooney's family. His absence leaves a void that will be profoundly felt by every one of us up here at The Moon," the bar wrote on their Facebook page.
Addiction has continued to cripple many across the country, and statistics suggest that the rate of opioid-related deaths has increased over the past decade.
There have been many tributes for them both since the news first broke. Our thoughts and prayers are with Jesse and Brett's family and friends during this tragic time.
If you or someone you know needs help, use SAMHSA Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator to find support for mental health and substance use disorders in your area or call 1-800-662-4357 for 24-hour assistance.
