Jackson Browne is grieving the heartbreaking loss of his son, Ethan Browne.
The legendary singer-songwriter, 77, shared the tragic news on Wednesday, Nov. 26, announcing in a Facebook statement that Ethan — a model and actor — has died at the age of 52. His cause of death is not known. The statement did not reveal how Ethan died, only that he was found unresponsive at his home on November 25 and later passed away. The L.A. County Medical Examiner has listed the cause of death as “deferred,” meaning it remains undetermined while further investigation is conducted, per the Daily Mail.
“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 statement said. “We ask for privacy and respect for the family during this difficult time. No further details are available at this moment.”
Per People, Ethan’s mother, Phyllis Major — who married Jackson Browne in 1975 — died by suicide in March 1976 at age 30, when Ethan was still a toddler.
As a baby, Ethan appeared with his father on the cover of Rolling Stone in 1974, just weeks after his birth. He later pursued acting, landing a small role in the 2004 Kate Hudson film Raising Helen, and built a career in modeling, appearing in campaigns for designers like Isaac Mizrahi. In producer Mark Ronson’s memoir Night People, Ethan is remembered as having striking looks and a thoughtful presence, shaped by both of his parents.
Ethan also founded Spinside Records, a division of Browne’s independent label Inside Recordings. Jackson Browne is also father to another son, Ryan, 43, with ex-wife Lynne Sweeney.
Jackson Browne is an American singer-songwriter known for his introspective lyrics, smooth vocals, and influence on the 1970s California rock scene. Born on October 9, 1948, in Heidelberg, Germany, and raised in Los Angeles, he rose to prominence with early hits like “Doctor My Eyes,” “Running on Empty,” and “The Pretender.” Browne became one of the most respected storytellers in rock, blending personal reflection with social and political themes.
His 1977 album Running on Empty became a landmark release, showcasing his ability to turn life on the road into vivid musical narratives. Over his decades-long career, Browne has earned multiple Grammy nominations, a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction, and widespread acclaim for both his songwriting and activism, particularly in environmental and humanitarian causes.
He is the father of two sons, Ethan and Ryan, and continues to record, tour, and inspire new generations of musicians.
