In related news, many social media users honor 'The Proposal' actress with #BettyWhiteChallenge in which they encourage others to donate to an animal shelter.
- Jan 4, 2022
AceShowbiz - Betty White's cause of death has been revealed. Denying that "The Proposal" actress passed away due to the COVID-19 vaccine booster, her agent confirmed that she died of "natural causes."
"Betty died peacefully in her sleep at her home. People are saying her death was related to getting a booster shot three days earlier but that is not true," Jeff Witjas said in a statement to PEOPLE on Monday, January 3. "She died of natural causes. Her death should not be politicized - that is not the life she lived."
Jeff, who is also a close friend of Betty, previously confirmed to the Associated Press that the late star did not receive a booster shot on December 28, 2021. It's a response to social media users' false claims about Betty saying, "Eat healthy and get all your vaccines. I just got boosted today."
Addressing the false quote, Jeff stressed in the Monday statement, "She never said that regarding the booster. Betty died of natural causes." Jeff went on to emphasize, "She did not have the booster three days before she died."
Betty died at the age of 99 on Friday, December 31 just weeks before her milestone birthday. In the wake of "The Golden Girls" alum's passing, her fans honored her with #BettyWhiteChallenge.
"On Betty White's 100th birthday, January 17th, everyone should pick a local rescue or animal shelter in your area and donate just $5 in Betty White's name," so read posts that have been circulating on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. "Make her 100th birthday the movement she deserves."
Betty was known for being an active animal advocate. According to CNN, she had worked with organizations like Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association, American Humane, Guide Dogs for the Blind, Endangered Wolf Center as well as BraveHearts Therapeutic Riding and Educational Center.
