Weeks after the tragic loss of his wife Melinda, it has been revealed that iconic Beach Boys singer Brian Wilson is suffering from dementia. This heartbreaking news comes as the 81-year-old’s family is coming together to propose a conservatorship to ensure he receives the support and care he needs.
According to court documents reported by Hello!, Brian Wilson has been facing mental health challenges over the years, and now struggles with cognitive impairments that affect his daily functioning and social interactions. This news is yet another blow for Wilson’s family, who are still grieving the passing of Melinda, his beloved wife, earlier this month.
Brian Wilson took to social media to express his grief, stating, “My heart is broken. Melinda was more than my wife. She was my savior. She gave me the emotional security I needed to have a career. She encouraged me to make the music that was closest to my heart.”
Melinda played a crucial role in saving Wilson from his mental health struggles, including schizoaffective disorder and bipolar disorder, even during the height of his fame with The Beach Boys. In the 1980s, Wilson was under the control of his controversial psychotherapist, Eugene Landy, who not only provided treatment but also had significant influence over his career and finances, including taking portions of his songwriting royalties. Melinda broke this unhealthy bond and likely saved his life when she entered his life in 1986. They dated for three years before Landy intervened and ended their relationship.
However, Brian and Melinda reunited in 1992, and Melinda became his wife and manager. She provided stability, support, and better mental health, allowing Brian to make a late-career musical comeback. As per new reports, Brian’s family, along with trusted aide Gloria Ramos, have proposed a united conservatorship to assist the 81-year-old musician as he battles dementia.
A hearing on April 26, 2024, will determine the establishment of the conservatorship, which will be jointly overseen by Wilson family representatives LeeAnn Hard and Jean Sievers.
We hope that Brian Wilson receives all the help and support he needs as he faces this difficult time.
