Beach Boys’ Brian Wilson placed in conservatorship amid battle with ‘major neurocognitive disorder’

Iconic Beach Boys co-founder Brian Wilson has been placed into a court conservatorship to manage his personal and medical decisions because of what his doctor calls a “major neurocognitive disorder”.

At 81 years old, Wilson is presently under medical supervision and undergoing treatment for dementia, as confirmed by a doctor’s declaration submitted alongside the conservatorship petition earlier this year in Los Angeles Superior Court.

During a hearing on Thursday, May 9, the petition, initiated by Wilson’s family and close circle after the passing of his wife, received approval from Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Gus T. May. Judge May’s decision stemmed from what he described as “clear and convincing evidence” necessitating the conservatorship.

Acknowledging Wilson’s consent to the arrangement but recognising his incapacity to make significant healthcare choices, Judge May appointed two seasoned Wilson representatives, publicist Jean Sievers and manager LeeAnn Hard, as his conservators, encountering no notable objections in the process.

Two of Wilson’s seven children, Carnie and Wendy Wilson, through their legal representation, requested inclusion in a group communication channel concerning their father’s health and participation in medical decision-making, a request which Judge May granted.

This development comes during an already challenging period for Wilson, following the recent loss of his cherished wife earlier this year. Wilson shared the heartbreaking news through a touching Instagram post, expressing the profound void left by her departure and the immense role she played in his life and career.

“Melinda, my beloved wife of 28 years, passed away this morning,” he wrote at the time.

“Our five children and I are just in tears. We are lost. Melinda was more than my wife. She was my savior. She gave me the emotional security I needed to have a career.

“She encouraged me to make the music that was closest to my heart. She was my anchor. She was everything for us. Please say a prayer for her.

“Love and Mercy Brian.”

 

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A post shared by Brian Wilson (@brianwilsonlive)

Despite enduring past struggles with mental health and substance abuse, Wilson remains highly revered and celebrated as a co-founder, producer, arranger, and chief songwriter of the Beach Boys. His groundbreaking contributions to music, particularly his innovative approaches to vocal harmony, have left a lasting mark on the industry.

Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1988 alongside his bandmates, including his brothers Carl and Dennis and his cousin Mike Love, Wilson’s musical legacy continues to captivate musicians and fans worldwide.

As Wilson enters this new phase of his life, his fans and loved ones rally around him, offering unwavering support during this challenging period.

-with AP.