‘Beauty and the Beast’ singer Peabo Bryson dead at 75

Peabo Bryson, the iconic R&B singer celebrated for his soulful voice and contributions to film soundtracks, has passed away at the age of 75. His family announced his peaceful transition on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, stating he was surrounded by his loved ones. The singer died less than a month after celebrating his 75th birthday.

Bryson's illustrious career began in the 1970s, first with the group Moses Dillard and the Tex-Town Display, before launching a successful solo career. He achieved widespread recognition for his duets on iconic Disney songs, including "Beauty and the Beast" with Celine Dion and "A Whole New World" with Regina Belle. Both songs earned him Grammy Awards, cementing his place in music history.

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He transitioned peacefully at 5:00 pm ET on the evening of Tuesday, June 2, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family and those closest to him.

Throughout his career, Bryson released over 20 albums, lending his voice to numerous other popular ballads such as "Tonight, I Celebrate My Love," "You’re Looking Like Love to Me," and "As Long as There’s Christmas." His music provided the soundtrack for many cherished moments, touching lives across generations with themes of love, joy, comfort, and inspiration.

His family expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from fans, reflecting on his enduring legacy. "For more than five decades, Peabo’s extraordinary voice served as the soundtrack to some of life’s most cherished moments," the statement read. "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."

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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.