John Stamos Reflects on the Life and Impact of Bandmate Jeff Foskett, Beach Boys Guitarist, who Passed Away at 67
John Stamos mourns the passing of his dear friend and bandmate, Jeff Foskett of the Beach Boys Reflecting on their profound bond, Stamos pays tribute to Foskett's transformative impact and the lasting legacy he leaves behind A heartfelt tribute to a musical icon
John Stamos, Jeff Foskett VALERIE MACON/AFP via Getty Images;Jon Super/Redferns via Getty Images
John Stamos is expressing his grief over the passing of Jeff Foskett, the vocalist and guitarist for the Beach Boys. He referred to Foskett as his "closest friend, brother, and the most positive influence in my life." Stamos, who is 60 years old, shared heartfelt messages on Instagram, commemorating Foskett as "more than just a friend; he was the one who introduced me to the harmonies of The Beach Boys, bringing a wave of color and happiness into my life that I never imagined possible. He was a dynamic presence, a radiant spirit whose laughter and wisdom impacted everyone he encountered. He served as a spiritual older brother, guiding, uplifting, and loving me, often more than I believed I merited."
Foskett passed away on Monday, December 11, at the age of 67, after a lengthy battle with stage 4 anaplastic thyroid cancer. A close friend of Beach Boys’ co-founder Brian Wilson, Foskett became a member of the band in 1981 (alongside co-founder Mike Love) and remained with the group until 1990. He later joined Wilson’s band for six years, and then reunited with the Beach Boys in 2015, staying with them until his health forced him to stop touring in 2019. During his time with the group, Foskett contributed to the recording of the band's 2012 album That’s Why God Made The Radio, as well as two of Love’s solo albums.
In 1983, Foskett introduced Stamos to the band, leading to the Full House star becoming a part-time percussionist for the group. Stamos still occasionally performs with the band to this day. The band also made multiple appearances on the family sitcom during its original run in the late 1980s and mid-1990s.
Stamos paid tribute to Foskett, acknowledging his "remarkable life and the profound impact he had on mine." He also expressed the pain of losing his dear friend as "the price we pay for the privilege of knowing and loving someone like him. Yes, the pain is excruciating and cuts deep into our souls, but it is a testament to the depth of our connection."
John Stamos took to Instagram to pay tribute to Jeff Foskett, describing him as "larger than life." Stamos praised Foskett's talent, laughter, and ability to make everyone feel seen and heard, noting that he left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.
Deal of the Day
You'll Want To Splash Around in These Bestselling Hunter Rain Boots
View Deal
"Your impact on my heart is unforgettable, but your love and laughter will live on within all of us," he shared. "As I bid farewell to my dear friend, I choose to recall not only the pain of his absence, but also the brightness of his presence. Rest in peace, my brother. You were deeply loved and will be missed immensely."
Wilson, 81, also expressed his grief over Foskett's passing in an Instagram post. "Jeff was one of the most talented individuals I ever met. As a musical leader and guitarist, he was remarkable, and his singing was angelic. I first met Jeff in 1976 when he knocked on my door in Bel Air, and we've been friends ever since. There are no words. Love and Mercy to Jeff's loved ones, we will always cherish his memory."
