New details emerge about the cause of Beach Boys icon Brian Wilson’s death

As fans around the world continue to mourn the passing of Beach Boys legend Brian Wilson, new details have emerged regarding the cause of his death.

Wilson, the musical genius behind such timeless classics as Good Vibrations and God Only Knows sadly passed away on Wednesday, June 11, at the age of 82.

According to his official death certificate obtained by TMZ, Wilson died from respiratory arrest. The document also cites sepsis and cystitis—both infection-related complications—as contributing factors. Additional underlying health conditions included a neurodegenerative disorder, obstructive sleep apnea, chronic respiratory failure, and chronic kidney disease.

The devastating news of Wilson’s passing was confirmed by his family in a heartfelt statement shared on social media.

“We are heartbroken to announce that our beloved father Brian Wilson has passed away,” they wrote at the time.

“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.”

 

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Born on June 20, 1942, Wilson showed a gift for music from an early age, learning to play piano and teaching his younger brothers to sing in harmony. What began as a modest family act in Hawthorne, California, rehearsing in bedrooms and garages, eventually became a defining force in American pop music.

Wilson played bass for the Beach Boys, while his brothers Dennis and Carl took up drums and lead guitar, respectively. The band’s early single Surfin’ gained local attention in 1961, but it was their second studio album, Surfin’ USA (1963), that launched them into stardom.

Originally managed by their father Murry Wilson, the group eventually came under Brian’s direction, with him taking control of studio sessions and shaping their signature sound. His pioneering work in songwriting and production redefined pop music and helped establish the Beach Boys as legends.

Over the years, the group released a string of iconic hits, including California Girls, Wouldn’t It Be Nice, Surfer Girl, and Good Vibrations. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1988 and honoured with a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2001.

Read more: Paul McCartney delivers moving tribute to late Beach Boys legend Brian Wilson