Recommendations of the Editorial team
The cause of death of Ethan Browne, the eldest son of singer-songwriter Jackson Browne, has now been revealed. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed on Tuesday, January 13, that Ethan died at age 52 from the “effects of fentanyl, methamphetamine and lidocaine.” The death was ruled an accident.
Confirmation from authorities and family
Jackson Browne had already confirmed his son’s death in an Instagram statement at the end of last year. It said: “It is with great sadness that we announce that Ethan Browne, the son of Jackson Browne and Phyllis Major, was found unresponsive at his home on the morning of November 25, 2025 and passed away. We ask for privacy and respect for the family during this difficult time.”
Ethan Browne was born on November 2, 1973 and grew up in Los Angeles. He worked as a model and was an actor.
Acting career and early life
He appeared in the 1995 crime thriller “Hackers,” appeared in an episode of the television series “Birds of Prey,” and had a small role in the 2004 romantic comedy “Raising Helen.”
Ethan was also musically active. Together with the multi-instrumentalist Cat Colbert, he founded the record label Spinside Records and the Alain Zane project.
Music, label and family closeness
The duo released their debut album “Right Before Your Eyes” on their own label in 2022. Just six months after his birth, Ethan appeared on the cover of Rolling Stone in his father’s arms. In the accompanying cover story, Jackson Browne spoke about his early career and fatherhood. “I wanted a baby because I wanted to be a baby myself,” he said. “I play along all the time [Ethan]; there is something pure about it. Look at all the facial expressions he has. He really is a lot of fun.”