The Grammy-winning R&B star, known for Disney hits “Beauty and the Beast” and “A Whole New World”, passed away surrounded by family.
By Bulelwa Hoala
American R&B singer and songwriter Peabo Bryson has died at the age of 75.
His family confirmed that he passed away on Tuesday, 2 June 2026, surrounded by his loved ones.
The announcement comes after reports that Bryson was hospitalised following a stroke on Sunday, 31 May.
“With broken hearts and profound sadness, the family of two-time Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter and balladeer Peabo Bryson announces his passing. He transitioned peacefully at 5 p.m. ET on the evening of Tuesday, June 2, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family and those closest to him,” the statement read.
Some of Bryson’s biggest hits include “If Ever You’re in My Arms Again” and “Can You Stop the Rain”. He also won two Grammy Awards for his performances on “Beauty and the Beast” with Celine Dion and “A Whole New World” with Regina Belle, both of which featured in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast and Aladdin, respectively.
“For more than five decades, Peabo’s extraordinary voice served as the soundtrack to some of life’s most cherished moments. His music carried generations through joyful celebrations, great love stories, and enduring moments of comfort and inspiration, creating a legacy that will forever live in the hearts of those who loved him and the countless lives he touched through song,” the statement continued.
In a touching message, Celine Dion paid tribute to Bryson, expressing her heartbreak at the loss.
“I’m heartbroken to hear that we lost Peabo Bryson today. His incredible voice and kind spirit embodied the beauty of song and performance. He was so wonderful and generous to me all those years ago when we recorded Beauty and the Beast. He made me feel so comfortable as I was just learning to sing in English.
“He will always remain, for me, a symbol of the joy that music has brought to my life. His voice and talent will be deeply missed,” she wrote.
I’m heartbroken to hear that we lost Peabo Bryson today. His incredible voice and his kind spirit embodied the beauty of song and performance. He was so wonderful and generous to me all those years ago, when we recorded Beauty and the Beast. He made me so comfortable, as I was… pic.twitter.com/ti8Tba33Or
— Celine Dion (@celinedion) June 3, 2026
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