Music legend Jackson Browne is mourning the unimaginable loss of his son, Ethan Browne, who has died at the age of 52. The 77-year-old singer-songwriter shared the heartbreaking news on Wednesday, November 26, confirming in a Facebook announcement that his son—an actor, model, and music entrepreneur—had passed away. No cause of death was immediately released.
A Life Marked by Early Tragedy and Creativity
The Browne family’s official statement conveyed their deep sorrow:
“It is with deep sorrow that we share that on the morning of November 25, 2025, Ethan Browne, the son of Jackson Browne and Phyllis Major, was found unresponsive in his home and has passed away. We ask for privacy and respect for the family during this difficult time. No further details are available at this moment.”
Ethan’s life began with a devastating loss. His mother, model and actress Phyllis Major, married Browne in 1975 but tragically died by suicide the following year at just 30 years old, leaving Ethan a toddler.
Despite the early tragedy, Ethan pursued a creative life, often in the public eye. As an infant, he appeared with his famous father on the cover of Rolling Stone in 1974. He later explored acting, securing a small role in the 2004 Kate Hudson film Raising Helen. Ethan also built a successful modeling career, working with prominent designers such as Isaac Mizrahi.
Producer Mark Ronson, in his memoir Night People, remembered Ethan for his striking appearance and quiet depth—qualities he attributed to the unique blend of both his parents. Ethan also maintained a connection to the music world, launching Spinside Records, an offshoot of his father’s independent label, Inside Recordings. Jackson Browne also shares a younger son, Ryan, 43, with ex-wife Lynne Sweeney.
Jackson Browne’s Enduring Legacy
Jackson Browne himself remains one of America’s most celebrated singer-songwriters, known globally for his reflective, introspective lyrics, warm vocals, and defining role in the 1970s California rock scene. Born October 9, 1948, in Heidelberg, Germany, and raised in Los Angeles, he achieved widespread fame with classics such as “Doctor My Eyes,” “Running on Empty,” and “The Pretender.” His 1977 album, Running on Empty, was a cultural milestone, crafting vivid musical storytelling from the realities of life on tour.
Over his career, Browne has garnered multiple Grammy nominations, been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame , and maintained a committed role as an activist for environmental and humanitarian causes.
The music icon continues to tour and create music, even as he now faces the profound personal tragedy of losing his oldest son.
