After much anticipation, the reason behind Jimmy Buffett’s recent demise has been unveiled, substantiating the sorrowful speculations. The legendary crooner had valiantly combated Merkel Cell Skin Cancer for a grueling four-year period, as disclosed in an official obituary hosted on his personal website.
Merkel cell carcinoma, an exceedingly rare affliction wherein malignant cells afflict the skin, according to the National Cancer Institute, was the formidable adversary that Jimmy Buffett had courageously confronted. It was underscored on his website that “sun exposure and a compromised immune system can heighten the susceptibility to Merkel cell carcinoma.” Remarkably, the obituary emphasized Buffett’s unwavering commitment to his artistry, revealing that he had continued to perform during his treatment, with his final surprise appearance in Rhode Island occurring in early July.
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The celebrated icon of ‘Margaritaville’ departed on September 1, peacefully passing away at his Sag Harbor residence on Long Island. At the age of 76, he left behind a legacy that transcends generations. According to a statement disseminated on his official website and social media channels, Jimmy Buffett drew his last breath enveloped by his kin, friends, harmonious melodies, and cherished canines. The statement poignantly articulated, “He lived his life like a song until the very last note and will be irreplaceably missed by countless souls.” He is survived by his devoted wife of 46 years, Jane Slagsvol, along with their three children, Savannah, Sarah, and Cameron.
Elton John paid a heartfelt tribute to Buffett on his social media platform, describing him as a unique and treasured entertainer. He remarked, “Jimmy Buffett was a singular and beloved performer. His fans adored him, and he never failed to captivate them. This is the most disheartening of tidings. A remarkable man departed far too prematurely.” Elton John extended his condolences to Jane and the entire Buffett family. Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys conveyed a succinct yet poignant message on his online platform, simply stating, “Love and Mercy.”
Mike Love, a fellow Beach Boys member, offered a heartfelt tribute to the star, fondly recalling their joint performances from years past. He reminisced, “Your music brought joy to so many people, including me. It was always a delight when our paths crossed, and we shared the stage together. I will cherish the moments spent on stage, especially your rendition of ‘Kokomo’ with us,” Love wrote.
Love and Mercy, Jimmy Buffett pic.twitter.com/9DUqbe8Hmf
— Brian Wilson (@BrianWilsonLive) September 2, 2023
Country music star Blake Shelton shared a poignant anecdote from his time collaborating with the late legend on his show “Carmageddon.” He expressed his heartache, saying, “This morning, my heart aches upon hearing of Jimmy Buffett’s passing. What an extraordinary talent and human being he was. His songs will endure for eternity. Most of you may not know that he penned the theme song for @BarmageddonUSA for me nearly two years ago. Today, I raise a toast to the ‘Son of a Son of a Sailor.'”
Jimmy Buffett,
Your music brought joy to so many people, including me. It was always a pleasure when our paths crossed and we were able to share the stage together. I will hold dear our time spent together on stage, especially you singing “Kokomo” with us. Your sense of humor… pic.twitter.com/ihqy8oZwE8
— Mike Love (@MikeLoveOFCL) September 2, 2023
Miles Teller, the star of ‘Top Gun: Maverick,’ shared an inspirational quote from Buffett alongside a photograph of himself with the iconic artist. He reflected, “I may not be able to alter the course of the wind, but I can certainly adjust my sails to eternally reach my destination,” paying homage to the enduring wisdom of Buffett.
Heart broken this morning hearing of Jimmy Buffett’s passing. What an incredible talent and man. His songs will live on forever. I’ll bet most of y’all don’t know that he wrote the theme song for @BarmageddonUSA for me about 2 years ago. Raising a glass today to the Son of a son…
— Blake Shelton (@blakeshelton) September 2, 2023
Jimmy Buffett bestowed numerous pop culture classics upon us during the 1970s and 1980s, including the iconic 1977 hit ‘Margaritaville,’ along with ‘Come Monday,’ ‘Cheeseburger in Paradise,’ ‘Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes,’ ‘A Pirate Looks at Forty,’ and ‘Pencil Thin Mustache.’ In this trying period, our thoughts and condolences go out to Jimmy Buffett’s family, friends, and devoted fans.
“I can’t change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination.” – the legend Jimmy Buffett pic.twitter.com/l0aMeuiOCJ
— Miles Teller (@Miles_Teller) September 2, 2023