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Bob Weir, guitarist and founding member of the Grateful Dead, has died. He was 78 years old.
Weir’s team announced the news in a statement on their official Instagram account on Saturday, January 10th.
“It is with deep sadness that we mourn the passing of Bobby Weir,” the statement began.
“After overcoming cancer with the courage that only Bobby could, he made a peaceful transition surrounded by his loved ones,” the statement continued, adding that he ultimately “passed away from an underlying lung condition.”
It is currently unknown where Weir was at the time of his death.
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“Bobby will forever remain a guiding force whose unique artistry transformed American music. His work didn’t just fill a room with music, it filled the soul, and it was a warm ray of sunshine that built a sense of community, language, and family that generations of fans will carry with them,” the statement continued.
The San Francisco-born musician was diagnosed with cancer in July 2025, according to an Instagram obituary.
“He began treatment just a few weeks ago and will return to his hometown stage for a three-night celebration celebrating 60 years of music at Golden Gate Park,” the statement said.
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“His loving family… requests privacy during this difficult time and would like to thank you for the outpouring of love, support and condolences,” the statement read.
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“May we not only grieve, but honor the bravery of keeping our hearts open and moving forward, allowing music to guide us home. Let’s hang up and see what tomorrow brings,” the statement concluded.
Founded in 1965, the Grateful Dead remains one of the most iconic bands in American history.
Weir, who received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2007 and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994, is “a recipient of both the Les Paul Spirit Award and the Americana Music Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award,” according to his official website.
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The site said Weir was “deeply committed to social impact” and was a “long-time supporter of HeadCount, a nonpartisan organization that uses music to promote voter registration and civic engagement.”
Additionally, he served as a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Development Program and co-founded the Furtur Foundation, which funds environmental, social and cultural activities through grants and partnerships.
Weir is survived by his wife, Natasha, and two daughters, Shara Monet and Chloe Kaelia.
