Brian May Opens Up About Mortality: His Fear of Death and the Legacy He Hopes to Leave
Brian May Opens Up About Mortality: His Fear of Death and the Legacy He Hopes to Leave
Brian May, the legendary guitarist of Queen, has spent decades captivating the world with his music, scientific curiosity, and unmistakable presence. Yet in a rare moment of vulnerability, the 77-year-old rock icon recently spoke candidly about something few stars openly discuss: his fear of death and the legacy he hopes to leave behind.
In an interview with Mojo magazine in April 2025, May admitted he is “scared” of dying. But rather than letting that fear paralyze him, he channels it into living fully and leaving a meaningful impact. Money, he revealed, is no longer his motivator. Since Queen’s catalog was sold to Sony, his focus has shifted entirely to leaving a positive mark through his work.
“We’re clearly not doing this for the money,” May explained. “When I pop off from this planet, I would like to know that I’ve done my best on anything that I ever touched.” This humble reflection underscores his commitment not just to music, but to a life well-lived and a legacy that matters.
Confronting Mortality After a Health Scare
May’s thoughts on life and death were sharpened by a health scare last year. He suffered a minor stroke that forced him to confront his own vulnerability. In a heartfelt social media video, he reassured fans of his recovery but later admitted the experience had been more serious than initially shown.
“It was scary,” he shared with Premier Guitar. “I couldn’t get a fork from the table to my mouth without it all going all over the place.” Temporarily unable to control his arm, May faced a stark reminder of life’s fragility.
Yet his determination was unwavering. Through sheer perseverance, he regained 95 percent of his motor skills within days—enough to continue his work. His recovery became a testament to resilience, inspiring fans around the world.
Legacy Over Fame
For decades, Brian May has been associated with Queen’s iconic music and grand performances. But behind the legend lies a man deeply reflective about mortality, purpose, and the meaning of life. His recent admissions reveal that, even after monumental success, the fear of death and the desire to leave something lasting remain profoundly human concerns.
Reflecting on his life, May emphasizes quality over quantity. “It’s not about how long you live, but what you do with the time you have,” he said. Through his music, scientific work, and personal efforts, May continues to strive for excellence, hoping to leave a legacy as enduring as the songs he helped create.
Brian May’s candidness offers a rare, intimate glimpse into the life of a rock icon—a reminder that behind fame and talent, even legends grapple with the same existential questions that touch us all.
