Brittany Murphy, whose career was launched with the 1995 teen comedy “Clueless,” died this morning of cardiac arrest, TMZ first reported. (After being discussed for four hours on Twitter and confirmed by various blog-media, the story was confirmed and released by traditional news agencies as well.) She was 32 years old.
Murphy’s career included the thriller “Don’t Say a Word,” a memorable role in “Girl Interrupted,” and a critically lauded turn in the Eminem bio-inspired “8 Mile.” Most recently, she was reportedly fired from the movie “The Caller,” although her rep denies that she was fired, saying that Murphy left over “creative differences.” Murphy also was a featured vocalist in trance DJ Paul Oakenfold’s song “Faster Kill Pussycat” (her vocals start about two minutes into this video).. But it was her turn in “Clueless,” from eponymous clueless high schooler to made-over princess who sang about “rollin’ with the homies,” that scored a place for her in the 90s nostalgia locker for today’s twenty- and thirty-somethings.

Los Angeles police have launched an investigation into Murphy’s death, but the speculation online includes theories of cocaine use and anorexia, both of which had been separately denied by Murphy over the years. The family has asked for the public to respect their privacy. Idol Chatter sends condolences on their loss.