Beach Boys' Brian Wilson Dead At 82: Legendary Songwriter Passes Away as Family Admits They're 'At a Loss For Words' in Emotional Statement
Brian Wilson has died aged 82.
June 11 2025, Updated 1:06 p.m. ET
Beach Boys co-founder, songwriter and producer Brian Wilson has died aged 82, RadarOnline.com can reveal.
The musician's family confirmed his death on social media.
Family Shares Their 'Grief With the World'
Wilson's family confirmed his death on Instagram.
The family announced on Instagram: "We are heartbroken to announce that our beloved father Brian Wilson has passed away.
"We are at a loss for words right now. Please respect our privacy at this time as our family is grieving. We realize that we are sharing our grief with the world. Love & Mercy."
Wilson's work defined a generation and brought the California teen sound of the 1960s into mainstream culture through hits including Good Vibrations, Surfin' U.S.A., California Girls, and Wouldn't It Be Nice.
His Legacy
Wilson has long been considered a leading visionary in the rock and roll genre.
As part of the Beach Boys, Wilson served as co-lead vocalist, bassist, songwriter and producer.
The band took the country by storm and quickly rivaled British pop groups such as The Beatles. From 1962 to 1966, the Beach Boys released 10 top-10 tracks and seven more top-40 hits – and sold over 100million records worldwide.
Wilson has long been considered one of the leading rock and roll visionaries who helped push boundaries and evolve the genre.
The band's eleventh studio album, 1966's Pet Sounds, has been widely regarded as one of the greatest albums of all time, largely thanks to Wilson's innovative producing style.
Wilson was placed under a conservatorship in 2024 amid his dementia battle.
Musicians and fans alike came together to grieve the enormous loss online.
Folk artist Margo Price commented on Instagram: "Sending you all love. So grateful for all the beautiful music and compassion he brought into the world."
Singer Jalen Ngonda added: "RIP to one of the greatest composers in human history."
Electronic duo Disclosure echoed: "Favorite producer & composer of all time. Pushed the boundaries further than anyone had before. Lost for words. We love you, Brian. Rest in peace to the greatest."
Dementia Battle
Wilson received 24/7 medical care from three assistants.
As RadarOnline.com reported, Wilson was placed under a conservatorship in 2024 after being diagnosed with a neurocognitive disorder similar to dementia.
He received 24/7 medical care from three assistants and was confined to his $9million Beverly Hills home.
Wilson's family filed to appoint his manager, LeeAnn Hard, as well as another individual named Jean Sievers, as conservators.
They explained their decision to place Wilson under a conservatorship in a statement: "This decision was made to ensure that there will be no extreme changes to the household and Brian and the children living at home will be taken care of and remain in the home where they are cared for by Gloria Ramos and the wonderful team at the house who have been in place for many years helping take care of the family.
"Brian will be able to enjoy all of his family and friends and continue to work on current projects as well as participate in any activities he chooses."
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The prolific musician was born in Inglewood, California, on June 20, 1942.
Wilson was married to his first wife, Marilyn Wilson-Rutherford, from 1964 to 1981. He was married to his second wife, Melinda Ledbetter, from 1995 until she died in 2024.
He shared two daughters, Carnie and Wendy, with his first wife and five adopted children – Dakota Rose, Daria Rose, Delanie Rose, Dylan, and Dash – with his late wife.
