3 days ago
Brian Wilson's Death Announced by Family With Heartbreaking Last Photo
Brian Wilson was the co-founder and genius behind the iconic California band the Beach Boys.
He formed the iconic band with his brothers Dennis and Carl, and two others. Along the way, they revolutionized music, developing what was known as a distinctive and breezy "California sound" devoted to surf and sun.
Brian Wilson's family announced his death on June 11 by posting a heartbreaking last photo showing the singer sitting on a park bench on his official Instagram page. Wilson was 82. One of Wilson's page's final posts wished Nancy Sinatra a happy birthday two days before the post about his death. The page has been incredibly active, frequently posting photos of Wilson's last years.
"We are heartbroken to announce that our beloved father Brian Wilson has passed away," the statement read. "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."
On June 11, the page also posted a video that read, "Rerun: 'Low-Fi Bri' Episode 1 – Brian on some of his favorite artists and songs."
People immediately filled up Wilson's Instagram comment thread with tributes.
"God only knows how much good Brian has brought to my life. I love you, Brian. Thank you for the sublime musical universe that has beautified my joys and sorrows. Have a good journey my friend," wrote one person.
"Favourite 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 💔" wrote another.
"I'm so very sorry ❤️🩹 Your father made music and the world better. Thank YOU all for sharing him with the world. Sending you so much healing and love ❤️🩹" another fan wrote.
A 1976 article about the Beach Boys in People described them as "the three Wilson brothers, cousin Mike and Al Jardine, a high school buddy from an undistinctive L.A. suburb." That article described Brian Wilson as the "formative genius of the group."Brian Wilson's Death Announced by Family With Heartbreaking Last Photo first appeared on Men's Journal on Jun 11, 2025
