Peabo Bryson, known for his Oscar-winning Disney duets, dies at 75 after suffering a stroke: Here's what the condition is
ETimes June 03, 2026 01:39 PM
Peabo Bryson , the renowned R&B singer globally known for singing the Oscar-winning Disney film duets “Beauty and the Beast” and “A Whole New World,” died at 75 after suffering a stroke , as reported by AP. The two-time Grammy Award winner was a songwriter and R&B’s premier balladeer who recorded hits like “Feel the Fire,” “I’m So Into You,” and “Can You Stop the Rain.”
“For more than five decades, Peabo’s extraordinary voice served as the soundtrack to some of life’s most cherished moments,” the family’s statement said. “His music carried generations through joyful celebrations, great love stories, and enduring moments of comfort and inspiration.”
Bryson had suffered a stroke in late May and was under medical supervision.
People reported that the family gave a statement: “At this time, the family requests privacy as they navigate this deeply personal moment together. The thoughts, prayers, and love of friends and fans are welcomed and deeply appreciated.”
His representative confirmed that in May, when he was hospitalized, he was in a stable condition and was “awake and responsive.”
The rep also added that “both his medical team and family are optimistic for a speedy recovery” and requested privacy for the family.
“We are tremendously moved by the outpouring of love, prayers, and support from fans, friends, and colleagues around the world,” Bryson's family said in a statement shared with People. “While our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing how deeply Peabo was loved and how many lives were touched by his voice and his generous spirit. His legacy and music will live on for generations to come.”
What is a stroke?
According to WHO, stroke has been referred to as a medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, either due to a blockage or bleeding.
This interruption of blood flow can lead to brain cell death and severe complications. Stroke was the third most common cause of death and disability in the world (93.8 million cases estimated) in 2021.
In 2021, there were 11.9 million new cases of stroke. The Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics from the American Heart Association (AHA) states that heart related and stroke related conditions kill more Americans annually than any other cause.
In Hollywood, artists have died before due to stroke, among them was singer and songwriter Michael Jackson, who died of cardiac arrest in 2009 at the age of 50.
In 2006, Soul legend Wilson Pickett died of a heart attack, while rock and roll pioneer Jackie Wilson suffered a massive heart attack during a live performance in 1975 and never fully recovered. Singer George Michael also died from heart and liver disease in 2016.
Stroke has likewise claimed the lives of notable musicians. Survivor frontman Jimi Jamison died from a hemorrhagic stroke in 2014 at the age of 63. Bryson's passing adds another name to a list of celebrated artists whose lives were cut short by serious cardiovascular and cerebrovascular conditions.
In 2019, the internationally celebrated Disney classics, Bryson suffered a mild heart attack. Although he gradually improved with time.
But on Tuesday evening, the singer died.
