Brian Wilson, legendary co-founder of the American pop group, the Beach Boys, and musical pioneer, died on June 11, 2025, at 82 years old. He was nine days shy of his birthday. Wilson, in addition to his two brothers, Carl and Dennis, Mike Love, and Al Jardine, founded the Beach Boys in 1961.
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They would go on to define a new genre of surf pop with iconic hits like “Surfin’ U.S.A.,” “California Girls,” and “Good Vibrations.” The Beach Boys’ eleventh studio album, Pet Sounds, was certainly a testament to Wilson’s pioneering recording techniques. This album would go on to influence countless bands, including the Beatles.
Wilson’s family announced his death on Facebook. “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.”
The Musical Icon Was Placed Under Conservatorship One Year Before Death
On February 15, 2024, Brian Wilson’s family announced they would be placing the 81-year-old under a conservatorship. The decision also followed the death of his wife, Melinda Wilson. Court documents described Wilson as having a dementia-like neurocognitive disorder. This caused him to be “easily distracted” and unable to consistently “maintain decorum appropriate to the situation.”
In their announcement on social media, the family wrote, “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.”
This was the second conservatorship Wilson was put under following his first conservatorship from the 1990s, following a steady decline in mental health due to drug use, preexisting conditions, and the influence of psychologist Eugene Landy. In the 2024 announcement, the Wilson family wrote of the second conservatorship, “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.”
The musical icon was nine days shy of turning 83.
Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
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