No one could have predicted the tragic death of Cory Monteith; the talented 31 year-old actor and singer who'd appeared to have triumphed over his drug addiction after entering rehab earlier this year. After his body was found in a hotel room when he failed to check out on 13th July, initial autopsy results showed no signs of substance abuse, but the toxicology report a few days later told a different story.

Cory Monteith
Cory Monteith: Remembered By His Friends In A Special Ceremony.

It was found that Monteith, upon returning from a night out in Vancouver, had died of an overdose owing to a mixture of heroin and alcohol. Monteith's co-star and girlfriend of one year, Lea Michele, has spoken of her "profound loss" and organised a special memorial service in Hollywood with Glee's creator, Ryan Murphy, for cast and crew of the show.

Cory Monteith Lea Michele
Cory Monteith & Girlfriend Lea Michele On The Set Of Glee.

A spokesperson from 20th Century Fox speaking to Sky News described the private memorial as an "emotional celebration" of the late actor's life, adding: "We thank the public for their continued outpouring of love and support as we grieve for our friend and colleague during this difficult time." Jane Lynch, who plays Glee's sports coach Sue Sylvester, described the celebration of Cory's life - sharing memories and music - as "beautiful," reports TMZ.com.

Cory Monteith
Cory Was Well Before His Untimely Death.

Though foul play was not suspected from the beginning of the inquest into Monteith's passing, Barbara McLintock, a representative from the British Columbia coroner's office confirmed, "There is no evidence to suggest Mr Monteith's death was anything other than a most sad and tragic accident." The star seemed happy before his death, including public appearances at a charity ball with Michele, which is why the star's demise has left such a wake of confusion and heartache for those who knew him and his fans.

Glee will return for a fifth season, with a planned Cory tribute, on 26th September 2013.