Nearly three weeks after his passing at the age of 83, the cause of death for beloved “Superstore” actor Jon Miyahara has been revealed. According to a death certificate obtained by People magazine, the beloved actor died of cardiopulmonary arrest, heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, and coronary artery disease.
Miyahara played Brett Kobashigawa on the iconic sitcom, portraying an older sales associate at Cloud 9 Store 1217 in St. Louis, Missouri.
Contributing Health Conditions in Miyahara’s Death
Cardiopulmonary arrest occurs when both heart function and breathing stop, resulting in death, per the National Library of Medicine. Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction means the heart pumps less blood with each beat than the normal 55% to 60%, according to the American Heart Association.
The certificate also listed contributing conditions, including end-stage kidney disease, diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol. Miyahara’s remains were cremated and are being kept at a family residence.
Family Confirms His Passing
Miyahara’s death was first reported by People magazine on August 7. His middle daughter, Pennie Cappasola, shared that the actor died one day earlier, on August 6, with his wife, Chiyo, by his side.
Although the family did not issue a formal statement, Cappasola noted how much her father valued his work. She told People that Miyahara “loved working on Superstore.”
Costars Pay Tribute
News of Miyahara’s death was first shared publicly by his “Superstore” co-star Colton Dunn, who honored him in a heartfelt social media post.
“John was a really awesome guy and as a performer could speak volumes with just a look,” Dunn wrote. “He was such a memorable part of the Cloud 9 team. It was an honor to know him and work with him. I was lucky enough to meet some of his family, and my thoughts are with them. Rest in Peace, John.”
Other cast members also expressed their condolences. Irene White, who played Carol, wrote, “What an incredible man.” Michael Bunin, who portrayed Jeff, added, “I’m so sad to hear this news. Many fun days and many fun conversations. Very nice guy.”
Writer and producer Sierra Teller Ornelas remembered him as “literally the sweetest man,” writing, “Prayers up to his family and loved ones.”
Miyahara’s Legacy on Superstore
Miyahara appeared in 105 of the 113 episodes of “Superstore,” which aired on NBC from 2015 to 2021. The beloved workplace comedy followed employees at the fictional Cloud 9 store and became a fan favorite during its six-season run.
The actor’s understated yet memorable presence on the show made him a standout among the ensemble cast. Fans and colleagues alike continue to celebrate his contributions and mourn his loss.
In Season 3 of “Superstore”, an episode titled “Brett’s Dead” saw Jon Miyahara’s character presumed dead after a tornado ripped through the Cloud 9 store. The storyline carried over from the Season 2 finale, when Brett delivered his only line of dialogue in the series as the storm approached, saying, “Oh s—.”
At the start of Season 3, the Cloud 9 employees mourned Brett, though no one was entirely certain if he had actually died. His co-workers even dedicated a bench in his honor, while Sandra, played by Kaliko Kauahi, performed Radiohead’s “Creep” on a ukulele at his memorial.
The twist came later in the episode, when it was revealed that Brett had survived the storm after simply driving home to avoid the tornado.
“Superstore” is currently streaming in full on Peacock.
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