Jimmy Buffett, the iconic singer-songwriter whose music celebrated a laid-back lifestyle, has passed away at the age of 76. He had been battling Merkel cell skin cancer at the time of his death, as detailed in an updated obituary on his official website. Remarkably, Buffett fought the disease for four years and continued performing during his treatment.
Buffett’s songs, including “Margaritaville” and “Cheeseburger in Paradise,” helped him to cultivate a devoted fan base known as “Parrotheads.” His music often encapsulated themes of relaxation, escapism, and the joys of coastal living.
Throughout his storied career, Buffett harnessed his enduring popularity to create a vast business empire. He ventured into bestselling literature, Broadway musicals, and an array of casual dining restaurants, resorts, and other businesses known for the vibrant lifestyle they promoted.
Buffett, center, signs a contract with ABC/Dunhill Records in 1973 in Nashville, Tennessee.Buffett poses for a photo on his sailboat in 1975.Buffett performed in Florida in 1975.Buffett appears as the musical guest on “Saturday Night Live” in 1978.Buffett speaks with Johnny Carson on “The Tonight Show” in 1981.Jimmy Buffett reacts while watching the shuttle launch at the Kennedy Space Center in November 1981.Buffett visits with actor Vasili Bogazianos on the set of “All My Children” in 1982.Buffett signs an autograph for a fan in Palm Beach, Florida in 1984.Buffett sings the national anthem to kick off a Miami Miracle game in 1989.Buffett performs in Mountain View, California in 1991.Buffett is photographed during an interview in 1998.Buffett with his son Cameron in 1999.Buffett performs on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” in 2003.Buffett stars alongside Luke Wilson in the 2006 film “Hoot.”Jimmy Buffett performs at the 2006 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.Buffett celebrates the grand opening of the Margaritaville Casino in Las Vegas in 2011.Buffett guest stars in an episode of “Hawaii Five-0” in 2011.Buffett appears on NBC News’ “Today” show in 2013.Buffett receives an honorary doctorate in music from the University of Miami in 2015.Buffett performs with actor Chris Pratt at the premiere of “Jurassic World” in 2015.Buffett poses at the Margaritaville resort in Hollywood, Florida in 2016.Vice President Joe Biden shakes hands with Buffett at a campaign event for Hillary Clinton in 2016.Jimmy Buffett surprises theatergoers during the curtain call for “Escape to Margaritaville” in 2017.Buffett performs the national anthem before the NFC Championship game in 2019.Buffett performs in New Orleans in 2022.
