Jackson Browne announces the heartbreaking death of his son

Jackson Browne is mourning an unimaginable loss following the death of his son, Ethan Browne.

The 77-year-old music icon shared the heartbreaking news on Wednesday, Nov. 26, confirming in a Facebook announcement that Ethan — an actor and model — has died at age 52. No cause of death has been released.

“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,” the family’s statement read.

“We ask for privacy and respect for the family during this difficult time. No further details are available at this moment.”

American singer-songwriter and musician Jackson Browne and his son, Ethan Browne, attend the Hollywood premiere of ‘Batman Returns,’ held at Mann’s Chinese Theatre in Los Angeles, California, 16th June 1992. (Photo by Vinnie Zuffante/Getty Images)

Ethan’s mother, Phyllis Major — who married Browne in 1975 — died by suicide the following year at just 30 years old, leaving Ethan a toddler.

Ethan appeared with his father on the cover of Rolling Stone in 1974 as an infant and went on to explore acting, including a small part in the 2004 Kate Hudson film Raising Helen. He also built a successful modeling career, working with designers like Isaac Mizrahi. In Mark Ronson’s memoir Night People, Ethan is remembered for his striking appearance and quiet depth — qualities attributed to both his parents.

Beyond acting and modeling, Ethan launched Spinside Records, an offshoot of Browne’s independent label, Inside Recordings. Jackson Browne also shares a younger son, Ryan, 43, with ex-wife Lynne Sweeney.

Jackson Browne himself is one of America’s most celebrated singer-songwriters, known for his reflective 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 rose to fame with classics such as “Doctor My Eyes,” “Running on Empty,” and “The Pretender.” His 1977 album Running on Empty became a cultural milestone, turning life on tour into vivid musical storytelling.

Jackson Browne and son Ethan arrive at the premiere of Touchstone Pictures’ “Raising Helen.” (Photo by Frank Trapper/Corbis via Getty Images)

Over the years, Browne has garnered multiple Grammy nominations, been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and remained a committed activist for environmental and humanitarian causes.

He is the father of two sons — Ethan and Ryan — and continues to tour and create music, even as he now faces this profound personal tragedy.