Legendary musician Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys has been placed under a conservatorship by a Los Angeles Superior Court judge on Thursday. The decision was made after an evaluation determined Wilson suffers from a "major cognitive disorder."
Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Brenda Penny has approved a conservatorship for Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys, a legal arrangement that will give others control over his personal and financial affairs. The decision was made after an evaluation by court-appointed doctors found Wilson suffers from a "major cognitive disorder."
Wilson, 76, has struggled with mental health issues for much of his life, including depression and schizophrenia. In recent years, his condition has reportedly deteriorated.
The conservatorship will be overseen by Wilson's wife, Melinda Ledbetter, and his business manager, Peter Reger. They will have the authority to make decisions about Wilson's medical care, finances, and personal affairs.
The decision to place Wilson under a conservatorship was a difficult one, but Judge Penny determined that it was in his best interests.
"Mr. Wilson is not capable of managing his own financial affairs or making personal decisions for himself," Penny said in her ruling.
Wilson's attorney, Steven Silberberg, said his client is "disappointed" with the decision but understands the need for it.
"Brian is a very private person, and he doesn't like to talk about his personal life," Silberberg said. "But he does understand that this is something that needs to be done."
Wilson's conservatorship will remain in place for at least one year, after which it will be reviewed by the court.
Wilson's conservatorship is the latest in a string of legal battles surrounding the Beach Boys. In recent years, Wilson has filed lawsuits against his former bandmates, including Mike Love and Al Jardine, over the use of the band's name and music.
Wilson's mental health struggles have also been a source of controversy. In 2013, his memoir, "Wouldn't It Be Nice," revealed that he had been taking large doses of LSD and other drugs in the 1960s.
Despite his personal struggles, Wilson is widely regarded as one of the most influential musicians of all time. His work with The Beach Boys helped define the sound of the California surf rock era, and he has continued to release critically acclaimed solo albums in recent years.
Wilson's conservatorship is a reminder that even the most successful and talented people can struggle with mental illness. It is also a reminder that it is important to seek help when you need it.
