Betty White’s cause of death confirmed as stroke

The legendary actress passed away on New Year's Eve.

It has been revealed that Betty White died following a stroke. A certificate obtained by TMZ lists the Golden Girls' star's cause of death as a cerebrovascular accident, which happened days before she passed away. She subsequently died in her sleep. White passed away at the age of 99, just a few weeks short of her 100th birthday. Following news of her death, a huge number of stars paid tribute to the actress. US President Joe Biden stated that White "brought a smile to the lips of generations of Americans". Former first lady Michelle Obama also paid tribute to Betty and said that she "broke barriers, defied expectations, served her country and pushed us all to laugh". Pop superstar Cher described Betty as a "beloved icon", while actress Reese Witherspoon thanked Betty for "making us all laugh". TV host Ellen DeGeneres said that she was "grateful for every second" she got to spend with the Golden Girls star. Actress Viola Davis said that Betty had "earned her wings", and that her legacy will "inspire generations". Prior to her death, a film, titled Betty White: 100 Years Young, was made to celebrate her 100th birthday. The producers of that film have said that their screening will go ahead as planned. Taking to Twitter, Fathom Events wrote: "Our hearts mourn today with the passing of Betty White. During the many years we worked with her, we developed a great love and admiration for Betty as a person, and as an accomplished entertainer. We are thankful for the many decades of delight she brought to everyone. "Betty always said she was the 'luckiest broad on two feet' to have had a career as long as she did. And honestly, we were the lucky ones to have had her for so long." The statement continued: "We will go forward with our plans to show the film on January 17 in hopes our film will provide a way for all who loved her to celebrate her life—and experience what made her such a national treasure."