The Death of Natalie Wood. A new play. On the cold winter morning of November 29 1981, the Hollywood starlet's body was found floating face down off the coast of the Santa Catalina Island of California. Wearing only a red down parka jacket, flannel nightgown, and socks, the LAPD officially ruled the cause of death as an "Accidental Drowning." LAPD ordered the case closed immediately. The Death of Natalie Wood explores the series of events that have remained silent and uncovered, shedding new insight on the tragic demise of one of Hollywood's most famous leading ladies.