Jackson Browne Shares Heartfelt Statement After Son Ethan’s Passing at 52

Jackson Browne expresses deep sorrow following the death of his son Ethan, a talented musician and actor.

A Father's Heartbreak: The Loss of Ethan Browne

When news broke about Ethan Browne’s death on November 25, 2025, the music world was struck by a somber silence. Ethan, the beloved son of legendary singer-songwriter Jackson Browne, was just 52 years old. Jackson himself shared the heartbreaking news in a simple yet profound Facebook message:

“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.”

This announcement touched many, especially those who had followed Ethan’s own creative journey, both in music and acting.

Ethan Browne sharing a moment with his father Jackson Browne.

Ethan Browne: More Than Just a Rock Star's Son

Ethan was a man of many talents, carving out his own unique path in the entertainment world. Beyond being Jackson Browne’s son, he thrived as a model, musician, and actor. Fans might recognize him from his roles in films like Raising Helen and Hackers, as well as the television series Birds of Prey.

But Ethan’s creative spirit didn’t stop there. He was part of the musical duo Alain Zane alongside Cat Colbert. Together, they released the album Right Before Your Eyes in 2022, a record that showcased Ethan’s vibrant musicality and deep love for the craft. Not to mention, he founded Spinside Records — an imprint under his father’s independent label, Inside Recordings — further solidifying his commitment to music on his own terms.

Interestingly, Ethan’s musical roots trace back to his earliest days; he famously appeared alongside his father on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine when he was just six months old. Talk about being born into the spotlight!

Jackson Browne’s Reflection on Ethan’s Music and Talent

In 2022, Jackson spoke warmly about his son’s musicianship:

“He’s a very talented bass player…I enjoy watching him and listening to his music. Does he remind me of myself at that age? Nah, not really. He’s a better musician than I am.”

It’s a touching sentiment from a father who clearly admired Ethan’s unique gifts. Watching Ethan grow into his own as an artist was clearly a source of pride for Jackson.

Ethan’s Impact and Memories in the Music World

Ethan’s influence rippled through his circle of friends and collaborators. In Mark Ronson’s memoir Night People, Ethan is fondly remembered as “the real deal,” with an “angular face and soulful gaze that seemed to reveal his deepest truths, even from a glossy page.” Ronson admired the sharp cheekbones Ethan inherited from his late mother, Phyllis Major, and the soulful eyes reminiscent of his father.

Phyllis Major’s tragic death by suicide in 1976, when Ethan was very young, left a lasting mark on Jackson. In a 2021 interview, Jackson shared that after Phyllis’s passing, being a father to Ethan became his “main focus” in life — a reminder of the deep bond between them.

Honoring Legacy on Stage: Jackson Browne’s Recent Performances

Earlier this year, Jackson Browne was seen sharing the stage with none other than Bruce Springsteen at an American Music Honors show in New Jersey. The event at Monmouth University gathered a tight-knit audience of just 700 fans, all lucky witnesses to a lineup that included John Fogerty, Smokey Robinson, Tom Morello, Darlene Love, and Nora Guthrie.

These moments reinforce the lasting contributions Jackson has made to American music — and how Ethan’s legacy is tied to a family deeply rooted in artistry and heartfelt expression.

Supporting Mental Health in Troubling Times

The Browne family’s loss reminds us all of the critical need for mental health awareness and support. For those navigating similar struggles, here are some valuable resources:

• “Am I depressed?” – Help and advice on mental health and what to do next
• MITC – A collective of musician industry therapists
• TONIC Rider – Bespoke training and support for music industry professionals
• Help Musicians UK – Around the clock mental health support and advice for musicians
• Music Support Org – Help for musicians struggling with addiction or mental health issues
• YOUNG MINDS – The voice for young people’s health and wellbeing
• CALM – The Campaign Against Living Miserably
• The Samaritans – Confidential support 24 hours a day

Reflecting on a Family’s Strength Through Art and Love

Ethan Browne’s passing marks a painful chapter in the life of Jackson Browne and all who knew him. Yet, amidst the heartache, there’s a celebration of Ethan’s vibrant talents — from acting to music — and the deep legacy of a family devoted to creativity and emotional truth.

How do you remember Ethan Browne or find solace in music during difficult times? Share your thoughts below.

FAQ

• How did Jackson Browne announce his son Ethan’s death?
  Jackson shared a heartfelt statement on Facebook requesting privacy during this difficult time.
• What were Ethan Browne’s main professions?
  He was a model, musician, and actor with roles in films like Raising Helen and Hackers, and part of the musical duo Alain Zane.
• Did Ethan work with his father in the music industry?
  Yes, he founded Spinside Records, an imprint on Jackson Browne’s label Inside Recordings.
• What is known about Ethan’s mother, Phyllis Major?
  Phyllis Major tragically died by suicide in 1976, leaving Jackson to focus on raising Ethan.
• Where can people find mental health support related to music industry struggles?
  Resources include Help Musicians UK, Music Support Org, and The Samaritans, among others.

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