Los Angeles, California – Renowned musician and co-founder of The Beach Boys, Brian Wilson, is set to be placed under a legal conservatorship following a ruling by a judge in Los Angeles on Thursday. The decision comes as Wilson battles a major neurocognitive disorder, with his manager, LeeAnn Hard, and publicist, Jean Sievers, appointed as conservators. The move follows the passing of Wilson’s wife, Melinda, earlier this year.
Unlike the highly publicized conservatorship of Britney Spears, which recently ended after 13 years, Wilson’s conservatorship has been initiated with his consent. At 81 years old, the court has determined that Wilson lacks the capacity to make his own healthcare decisions due to his condition.
Judge Gus T. May of Los Angeles Superior Court emphasized the necessity of the conservatorship, citing Wilson’s major neurocognitive disorder as the basis for the decision. The court also stipulated that Wilson’s seven children will be kept informed and consulted regarding their father’s healthcare decisions.
Wilson’s family had publicly announced their intention to seek conservatorship back in February, stating that the decision was made to ensure stability and care for Wilson and his children. While the exact details of Wilson’s condition have not been disclosed, it is known that he has been struggling with mental health issues throughout his life.
Throughout his career, Wilson has faced challenges with his mental well-being, including a period in the 1970s and 1980s when he was under the control of psychologist Eugene Landy. Despite these struggles, Wilson continued to create music and tour until 2022, attributing his ability to work to the support of his late wife.
In the early 1990s, Wilson’s family intervened to separate him from Landy, ultimately leading to a restraining order against the psychologist. Wilson’s journey through illness and recovery has been a testament to his resilience and the support of his loved ones. The conservatorship is seen as a necessary step to ensure his well-being and continued care in the face of his health challenges.