Mystery Surrounds 1973 Death of Assistant to Hollywood Star

LOS ANGELES, CA – The untimely death of David Whiting, a personal assistant to actress Sarah Miles, has resurfaced as a topic of intrigue nearly five decades after his body was discovered on February 11, 1973. Whiting, just 26 years old at the time, was found dead during the production of ‘The Man Who Loved Cat Dancing,’ a film directed by Richard C. Sarafian and based on Marilyn Durham’s novel.

Initial reports surrounding Whiting’s death speculated foul play, particularly following a chaotic night of birthday celebrations for actor Burt Reynolds, who co-starred in the film alongside Miles. The events leading to Whiting’s death included an argument with Miles, after which she chose to spend the night in Reynolds’ hotel room. The following morning, Whiting was discovered dead in their shared room.

While preliminary investigations suggested a drug overdose, local authorities later classified the cause of death as an accidental overdose of methaqualone, commonly known as a sleep aid. However, the autopsy report noted various injuries—including bruises and a one-inch laceration on the back of his head—that raised further questions about the nature of his death.

Whiting’s mother, Louise Campbell, publicly alleged that Reynolds was responsible for her son’s death, a claim not pursued by law enforcement but that fueled rampant speculation. Miles later claimed that her son, Tom Bolt, had witnessed Reynolds committing the act, although Bolt himself expressed skepticism about the memory. In a recent interview with Robert Emery’s Backstage podcast, Bolt stated, ‘I don’t think for a minute this is true. I think it’s just what Mum felt like saying on the spur of the moment in the interview.’

Despite the accusations, Reynolds, who has consistently denied any wrongdoing, cooperated fully with investigators. Bolt revealed, ‘He always denied any involvement,’ emphasizing that the evidence against Reynolds was based solely on a shaky memory provided by his mother.

The tragic circumstances surrounding Whiting’s passing continue to generate interest and debate in Hollywood circles, where urban myths often intertwine with celebrity narratives. Ultimately, the unresolved questions regarding Whiting’s injuries and the events of that fateful night persist, ensuring that the fabric of mystery remains alive in this storied Hollywood tale.