Autopsy report: Pitchman Billy Mays cocaine induced death

photo: Sinaasappeljuice

Billy Mays, shown above posing with one of his many fans, was the ultra loud, “as seen on TV” pitchman that could sell just about anything. In fact, he became so famous for his commercials that he was even invited to make an appearance on the Jay Leno show. Few sales people ever receive the fame and recognition that Billy Mays was able to reach. Sadly, Mays, at age 50, was found dead in his Florida home on June 28th. The autopsy report, which became available on Friday, shows that he did indeed die from heart failure. Here’s the kicker. Cocaine was found in his system, with the toxicology report showing that Mays had most likely used the substance within just a few days of his death. It is most likely that this contributed heavily to the cause of death. Read details at cnn.com.

We are saddened to hear this, Billy Mays was at the height of his career, and an inspiration to all of the hard working sales people out there.

Let’s remember a few pointers that Billy Mays created his career around:

1. Always believe in the product you sell. He was known to turn down many product endorsements, and would only represent a product he stood behind.

2. Always talk really really loud. I think what I really mean by that is, do something that sets you apart and makes people listen to your message. Billy’s loud volume approach did just that for him.

3. Find a product that solves a common problem, and give it to people for a great a price. And wait, there’s more. Don’t forget to add value by throwing in something extra.

4. Work hard, but don’t forget about your family. May’s was known to talk about his years on the road, and how he didn’t spend time with his family until later on in his life. Don’t forget about the things that are really important.

I hope we can all learn a lesson from this tragedy, and also learn some great business lessons by looking at how one of the most famous pitchmen in world climbed his way to the top, screaming and shouting all the way. RIP Billy Mays.