Ethan Browne, son of ‘70s singer-songwriter Jackson Browne, died on November 25, 2025, after he was found unresponsive in his home. At the time, it was unknown what caused his death; however, new details have just emerged about the manner, per TMZ.
TMZ reported on Tuesday, Jan. 13, that Ethan died due to the “toxic effects of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and lidocaine.” The outlet obtained information about Ethan’s passing from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner, who also stated that his death was accidental.
Ethan was 52 years old when he died.
Ethan Browne Starred in ‘Raising Helen’
At the time of his passing, the official Instagram account for Jackson, singer of the hit classic “Running On Empty,” broke the news about the death of Ethan, who starred in “Raising Helen” alongside Kate Hudson and Hayden Panettiere, as well as “Hackers” alongside Angelina Jolie.
“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 post detailed.
When he was only a few months old, Ethan appeared on the 1974 cover of Rolling Stone with his dad. The adorable photo shows the songwriter, who penned the lyrics for the Eagles’ classic “Take It Easy,” holding Ethan in his hands and close to his face as he lightly kissed his cheek.
Ethan Browne Has a Daughter
As an adult, Ethan followed in his father’s footsteps musically. He was part of the R&B/soul duo Alain Zane. His groupmate was Cat Colbert, whose dad, Charles Colbert, played bass for the iconic Harry Belafonte. Ethan and Cat released their debut album, “Right Before Your Eyes,” in 2022.
Ethan is survived by his father, who is still active in the music business. In 2021, Jackson released his album “Downhill From Everywhere,” which was nominated for a Grammy in the Best American Album category. The singer-songwriter also toured the U.S. in 2025, appearing in major cities as well as festivals such as BeachLife Festival and ShoalsFest.
Ethan is also survived by his daughter, Aaylah. Before his passing, he shared bits of his family life on his Instagram. In one post from about three years before he died, he praised his daughter by sharing her photos and a meaningful message for her birthday.
“My angel turns 15 today! Happy birthday, My Darling Aaylah ❤️ I love you immensely ❤️🥰,” the late entertainer penned.
When he was only a young boy, his mom, Phyllis Major, passed away. The New York Post reported that Phyllis died in 1976, only a few months after she and Ethan’s father were married.
