The Beach Boys’ Brian Wilson Cause of Death Revealed

Brian Wilson, the legendary co-founder and creative force behind The Beach Boys, died on June 11, 2025. His cause of death was not immediately disclosed by family, but multiple outlets have obtained his death certificate.

Brian Wilson’s primary cause of death was ‘respiratory arrest’ as listed on his death certificate from the Los Angeles County Department of Health. Respiratory arrest is a condition in which breathing stops while the heart continues to beat, leading to a critical lack of oxygen in the body. This can quickly become fatal if not found and addressed immediately.

The death certificate further lists sepsis and cystitis as contributing factor’s in Wilson’s death. Sepsis is a life-threatening response to infection that can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death. Cystitis refers to inflammation of the urinary bladder, which can sometimes lead to sepsis if the infection spreads throughout the body.

Before his death, Wilson was suffering from a series of chronic health conditions in the years leading up to his death. He had been diagnosed with neurodegenerative disorder—leading to dementia—for which he was placed under a conservatorship in 2024. Wilson was also diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, chronic respiratory failure, and chronic kidney disease. These underlying conditions likely contributed to his declining health over the years and made him more susceptible to the conditions listed on his death certificate.

Following the announcement of Wilson’s death earlier this month, tributes poured in from music icons across the globe. Icons like Elton John, Keith Richards, Bruce Springsteen, and Mick Fleetwood all sent their condolences to the family, while simultaneously honoring Wilson’s profound influence on popular music.

His pioneering work with The Beach Boys resulted in hits like “Good Vibrations,” “California Girls,” and the groundbreaking album Pet Sounds. Despite decades of personal and health struggles, his artistry and vision reshaped the sound of popular music and inspired a new generation of musicians to create music influenced by his sound.