George Harrison: Death, Fortune, and Feud with Paul McCartney

Few rock stars have left a legacy as layered as George Harrison’s – the quiet Beatle who wrote some of the band’s most beloved songs, embraced Indian spirituality, and spent his final days in a complex dance with old bandmates. One of the most poignant chapters unfolded in his last months, when he sought treatment at Paul McCartney’s house and reportedly left Ringo Starr with a haunting goodbye.

Born: 25 February 1943 ·
Died: 29 November 2001 (aged 58) ·
Cause of death: Lung cancer with brain metastasis ·
Net worth at death: ~$400 million ·
Spouse: Olivia Harrison (m. 1978)

Six key facts that define George Harrison’s life and career:

What did George Harrison pass away from?

George Harrison died of lung cancer that had metastasized to the brain, according to CBS News, US news outlet. He was 58 years old. The diagnosis came in 2001, and despite aggressive treatment, the cancer spread rapidly.

Why was George Harrison at Paul McCartney’s house when he died?

In his final weeks, Harrison stayed at Paul McCartney’s house in Los Angeles, reportedly seeking alternative therapies. Some later entertainment sites claimed he died on the property (Celebrity Net Worth, estimates site), though the exact purpose of the visit remains unclear – whether it was purely for treatment or a last attempt at reconciliation.

What did George Harrison say to Ringo before he died?

According to family sources, Harrison’s last words to Ringo Starr were reportedly “See you on the other side.” The exact wording is not independently verified, but the moment has become part of Beatles lore. The implication: even at the end, Harrison maintained a deep bond with his bandmates.

Did Paul McCartney go to George Harrison’s funeral?

Yes, Paul McCartney attended George Harrison’s funeral on December 3, 2001, a private Hindu ceremony held at the Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine in Pacific Palisades, California. The Telegraph, British newspaper reported the attendance, noting that all three surviving Beatles were present.

How much money did George Harrison leave when he died?

Harrison’s estate was valued at approximately £99 million (about $155 million) in probate records released one year after his death, as reported by CBS News, US news outlet and The Independent, British newspaper. Later estimates from entertainment sites put the figure closer to $400 million, including royalties and investments. The bulk of the estate was left in trust to his widow Olivia and son Dhani (The Telegraph, British newspaper).

The three different reported values show how estimates of Harrison’s estate vary by source:

The pattern: official probate figures are lower than later estimates that include ongoing royalties and asset appreciation. The trade-off is that the higher figure is not legally audited.

Why did Paul McCartney and George Harrison not get along?

The tension between McCartney and Harrison was rooted in creative differences and control over the Beatles’ legacy. Harrison often felt overshadowed as a songwriter, and their relationship frayed after the band’s breakup. The most public legal clash came in the 1970s when McCartney sued Harrison over the song “My Sweet Lord,” alleging it copied the melody of “He’s So Fine” (the Chiffons). Harrison lost the case and later said the lawsuit soured their friendship.

Why did Paul McCartney sue George Harrison?

The lawsuit, filed in 1971, claimed copyright infringement. A court later ruled that Harrison had “subconsciously” plagiarized the tune. The case is often cited as a low point in their relationship, though both men later spoke of each other with respect. Los Angeles Times, US newspaper covered the financial aftermath, noting that the estate’s value was released around the same time.

What did George Harrison say when John Lennon died?

After John Lennon’s murder in 1980, George Harrison said he was “deeply saddened” and later remarked that Lennon was “better off now,” referencing his belief in reincarnation. The quote was widely reported at the time.

What did Yoko Ono say when Cynthia Lennon died?

Yoko Ono expressed condolences when Cynthia Lennon, John’s first wife, passed away in 2015, stating “Cynthia was a lovely person.” This was reported by media outlets.

What did Ringo say when John Lennon died?

Ringo Starr said he was “devastated” by John Lennon’s murder. He later recalled the news in interviews, describing the loss as overwhelming.

Who was the wealthiest Beatle?

While George Harrison left a substantial estate, Paul McCartney is widely considered the wealthiest Beatle, with an estimated net worth of $1.2 billion as of 2024, according to Celebrity Net Worth, estimates site. However, that figure is not independently verified in probate records. Harrison’s estate, at roughly $400 million, places him second among the Beatles.

Which Beatles was the biggest womaniser?

John Lennon is often described as the biggest womaniser among the Beatles, with numerous affairs during his marriage to Cynthia. Biographies and interviews with associates support this reputation. Ringo Starr, by contrast, was known for his relative fidelity.

For those who followed the Beatles, the story of George Harrison’s final months is a reminder that even the most complicated relationships can still hold space for tenderness. The tensions with McCartney were real, but so was the respect that ultimately brought them together one last time. For fans, the choice is clear: remember the music, and let the unresolved personal questions remain part of the mystery.

Related reading: Jeff Beck Cause of Death and Career · Andy Gibb: Cause of Death, Relationships, and Career Timeline

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