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How did Mickey Gilley die? Country music legend, 86, inspired John Travolta film 'Urban Cowboy'

Gilley opened his first nightclub in Pasadena, Texas, in 1970, which later became known as the 'world's biggest honky-tonk'

Country music star Mickey Gilley died aged 86 on Saturday, May 7, in Branson, Missouri, where he helped run the Mickey Gilley Grand Shanghai Theatre. Gilley was known for a string of hits in the 1970s and '80s.

Gilley opened his first nightclub in Pasadena, Texas, in 1970, which later became known as the "world's biggest honky-tonk". The singer and his mechanical bull were portrayed in the 1980 film 'Urban Cowboy', which starred John Travolta and Debra Winger. Gilley was a cousin of rock and roll royalty Jerry Lee Lewis. 

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The Mayor of Pasadena, Texas, Jeff Wagner announced Gilley's death. "Pasadena lost a true legend. Mickey Gilley passed away today, surrounded by his loved ones. It was my great honor to know this man most of my life. Blessed to have him at our State of the City 2/2020. Our prayers for are with his family, loved ones & fans," a Twitter post read. The cause of his death has not been revealed. 

Gilley died soon after his recent tour date cancellations on May 1, reportedly due to 'health issues' and 'energy levels' that barred him from being '100 percent' at his shows. He had said at the time that he was getting medical help. "I’ve been seeking doctors to get me back on track," he had said on social media. "I hope to be reenergized, healthy and back in full swing to see you at our shows soon!"

Gilley made his debut with Is 'It Wrong For Loving You', gaining a total of 39 Top 10 hits. 17 of these made it to the number one spot. Among several accolades that he received are six ACM Awards and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He had also been inducted into the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame. He is survived by his wife, Cindy Loeb Gilley, and his four children. 

During an interview with The Associated Press in March 2001, Gilley had said, “If I had one wish in life, I would wish for more time." "I am doing exactly what I want to do. I play golf, fly my airplane and perform at my theater in Branson, Missouri, " he had added, saying, "I love doing my show for the people.” Gilley had also appeared as an actor on shows and films like 'Murder She Wrote', 'The Fall Guy', 'Fantasy Island' and 'The Dukes of Hazzard'.

In August 2008, Gilley underwent brain surgery after being diagnosed with hydrocephalus. He was also suffering from short-term memory loss. A year later, in 2009, he underwent more surgery after he fell off a step. Gilley sustained a fractured ankle and fractured right shoulder in an automobile accident in 2018. 

Tributes poured in on social media after the news of Gilley's death surfaced. "Sad to hear that country music star and founder of the world’s biggest honky-tonk Gilley’s, Mickey Gilley has passed away at age 86. Sending prayers to his family, friends and fans," one user wrote. "Country music and Pasadena lost a legend today with the passing of Mickey Gilley. Just last summer I was fortunate enough to go by his house and visit for a little bit," one user said, while another wrote, "Lost a great! Mickey Gilley was a legend in Country. When I was in high school I worked for a promotions co that put on Mickey Gilley concerts at the Jai Alai arena in my hometown. Mickey was always a fan fav and put on an amazing show! He lived a hell of a song 86 years long…"

Former football coach Barry Switzer said, "We lost one of the cousins today! Mickey Gilley from Ferriday, Louisiana! Name me cousins can play the piano like these three Jimmy Swaggart, Jerry Lee Lewis! I think they’re all 86?" Singer-songwriter Rhonda Vincent said, "So sad to hear of the passing of Country Music Legend Mickey Gilley. Our paths crossed a few times being in Branson; and Gene Watson & I did his TV show. Fortunate to hang out backstage w/Johnny Lee & Mickey Gilley. Great stories and great memories. May He Rest In Peace." "Just when I think my heart can’t take anymore loss, I get the news that my dear close friend Mickey Gilley has passed. He truly altered the course of country music. I was fortunate to have gotten to see one of his last concerts 3 weeks ago. Prayers for Cindy, family and his fans," singer TG Sheppard said.