Benson Boone has just shared one of the most heartbreaking messages of his young career. The 23-year-old singer-songwriter posted a raw, tear-jerking tribute late last night announcing the death of his grandfather—the man he credits as his earliest and most devoted supporter.
Here is Benson’s full statement, posted across Instagram, TikTok and X:
“Last night I lost my grandpa.
The man who taught me strength, kindness, and how to keep going even when everything feels heavy. He was my very first fan. When I was 8 years old singing off-key in the living room, he’d sit there beaming like I’d just performed at the Grammys. He came to every little show he could, wore my hoodies, blasted my songs in his truck, and called me after every release to say ‘You did it again, buddy.’
He fought so hard these past few months. Yesterday he finally got to rest.
I’m broken. I keep checking my phone waiting for that call that won’t come anymore. I don’t have the right words yet. I just know I’m thankful for every single day I got with him.
He’s the heartbeat behind so many of my songs—the reason I write about love, loss, family, and pushing through the darkest moments. Every time I step on stage, every lyric I sing, he’s there.
I love you, Grandpa. Thank you for believing in me when I couldn’t believe in myself. I promise to make you proud forever.
Rest easy.
— Benson”
The post featured a tender black-and-white childhood photo of young Benson sitting on his grandfather’s lap at an old upright piano. Within minutes the image and caption went viral, racking up millions of likes, shares and comments. Fellow artists including Tate McRae, Noah Kahan, Gracie Abrams and Sabrina Carpenter were among the first to respond with love and support, while fans poured out stories of how Boone’s music had carried them through their own losses.
Benson’s team has confirmed that all media appearances and promotional commitments for the next two weeks are postponed. The current leg of his world tour, scheduled to resume in Europe next month, remains on the calendar for now, though insiders say he will evaluate dates in the coming days after spending time with family.
Throughout his rise, Boone has spoken openly about his close bond with his grandparents, especially his grandfather, who attended early open-mic nights and small gigs long before “Ghost Town,” “Beautiful Things” or “Slow It Down” took over the charts. Many listeners are now hearing songs like “In the Stars” and “Momma’s Boy” in an entirely new light.
The music community has rallied around Benson with an outpouring of messages calling his vulnerability courageous and his grandfather’s influence profound. One of the most shared fan comments reads: “He sings pain so beautifully because he’s lived it—and now he’s living the hardest chapter. All the love in the world to Benson and his family.”
A quiet, irreplaceable light has gone out in Benson Boone’s life. But through every future note he sings, his grandfather’s pride and belief will continue to echo.
