Brian Wilson's Cause of Death Revealed Two Weeks After Passing Away at 82

Published: June 26, 2025

Brian Wilson, the legendary co-founder of the Beach Boys, passed away on June 11 at the age of 82. Two weeks after his death, the cause of his passing has been revealed. According to his death certificate, Wilson died of "respiratory arrest," which can be caused by "decreased respiratory effort" and leads to a lack of oxygen.

Other causes of death listed on his death certificate include sepsis and cystitis. Additionally, neurodegenerative disorder, obstructive sleep apnea, chronic respiratory failure, and chronic kidney disease are listed as other associated factors.

Wilson's family announced his death on social media, saying, "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."

A Legendary Music Career

Brian Wilson was born on June 20, 1942, and formed the Beach Boys in California in 1961 with his brothers Dennis and Carl Wilson, cousin Mike Love, and friend Al Jardine. The band released their first album, "Surfin' Safari," in 1961, followed by "Surfin' USA" in 1962. Their subsequent albums helped establish their signature "California sound."

Some of the Beach Boys' most iconic songs include "California Girls," "God Only Knows," "Surfin' USA," "Good Vibrations," and "Wouldn't It Be Nice." Wilson was inducted into the Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame in 1988 with the rest of the band.

Later Life and Conservatorship

In early 2024, Wilson's family filed to place him in a conservatorship, claiming he suffered from a "major neurocognitive disorder (such as dementia)." The decision was made to ensure that there would be no extreme changes to the household and that Wilson and his children living at home would be taken care of.

Wilson is survived by his seven children. His family said that he was still 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."