Jackson Browne mourns the heartbreaking loss of his son, Ethan Browne

Jackson Browne is grieving the sudden death of his son, Ethan Browne, who passed away at age 52. The singer confirmed the tragic news in a heartfelt statement shared on Facebook.

On Wednesday, November 26, legendary musician Jackson Browne announced that his eldest son, Ethan, had died unexpectedly. According to a family statement, Ethan was found unresponsive in his home on the morning of November 25.

“It is with deep sorrow that we share that on the morning of November 25, 2025, Ethan Browne… was found unresponsive in his home and has passed away,” the family shared. “We ask for privacy and respect for the family during this difficult time.”

No cause of death has been released.

Ethan Browne was born into a world of music and fame. His mother, Phyllis Major, married Jackson Browne in 1975 but tragically died by suicide the following year when Ethan was still a toddler.

Despite such early heartbreak, Ethan carved his own path in life. As a baby, he appeared with his father on the cover of Rolling Stone in 1974. Later, he ventured into acting and modeling. He had a small role in the 2004 film Raising Helen and modeled for big-name designers like Isaac Mizrahi.

In addition to his creative pursuits, Ethan also worked in music like his father. He helped launch Spinside Records, a branch of Jackson Browne’s label Inside Recordings.

Those who knew Ethan remember him as thoughtful and gentle. In producer Mark Ronson’s memoir Night People, Ethan was described as having a “striking appearance and quiet depth” — a reflection of both his famous parents.

Though he stayed mostly out of the public eye, Ethan’s life was full of artistic influence, love, and complexity. His sudden death is a devastating blow to his family and all who knew him.

Jackson Browne, now 77, is considered one of America’s greatest singer-songwriters. Known for hits like “Running on Empty,” “The Pretender,” and “Doctor My Eyes,” Browne’s music captured the emotional spirit of a generation.

He has two sons — Ethan and Ryan, 43, from a later marriage to Lynne Sweeney. While he has long been a voice for peace, the environment, and humanity, Browne now faces one of life’s hardest tests: losing a child.

The death of Ethan Browne is a painful reminder of life’s unpredictability — even for those who seem to have everything. Fans of Jackson Browne have flooded social media with support, sending thoughts and prayers during this heartbreaking time.

As the world grieves with Jackson Browne, we are reminded that behind every legend is a parent, a family, and a heart that feels deep sorrow.