Judge Places Brian Wilson Under Conservatorship

The Beach Boys legend Brian Wilson has been placed under a conservatorship.

As reported earlier this year, his family and doctors—in addition to an agreement drawn up by Wilson and his late wife, Melinda Ledbetter—agreed to place the musician under a conservatorship run by his longtime representatives, LeeAnn Hard and Jean Sievers.

On Thursday (9 May), Los Angeles Superior Court judge Gus T May approved the petition to place Wilson in court conservatorship. The singer’s doctor has described his current condition as a “major neurocognitive disorder (including dementia)”.

Court documents filed earlier this year stated that Wilson was unable to maintain his “physical health, food, clothing, or shelter” and that before her passing, Ledbetter took to caring for Wilson’s “daily living needs.”

“I find from clear and convincing evidence that a conservatorship of the person is necessary,” Judge May said in Thursday’s hearing, per The Guardian. Judge May commented that the evidence showed that Wilson consented to the arrangement and cannot currently make his own healthcare decisions.

Two of Wilson’s children, Carnie and Wendy Wilson, asked – via their attorney – to be involved in a text chain with the doctors about their father’s condition and be consulted in medical conditions. Judge May approved their requests.

An attorney for Wilson, Robert Frank Cipriano, stated that the performer can walk with a walker and help from a caregiver. Cipriano said that Wilson has a good understanding of his identity and where he is but struggles to name his children other than the two who live with him.

Earlier this year, the Wilson family shared a statement about the decision to file for the conservatorship, writing on social media:

This decision was made to ensure that there will be no extreme changes to the household and Brian and the children living at home will be taken care of and remain in the home where they are cared for by Gloria Ramos and the wonderful team at the house who have been in place for many years helping take care of the family.

Brian will be able to enjoy all of his family and friends and continue to work on current projects as well as participate in any activities he chooses.

Today’s news follows the recent revelation that Brian Wilson’s 1970 unfinished country music album, Cows In The Pasture, could finally be released soon.

Cows In The Pasture is being revived with “all-star” guest vocalists. Wilson is on board as executive producer and provides vocals on one of the tracks.