Sometimes, it doesn’t pay to be rich. That is certainly the case for the celebrities on this list, all of whom had their estates raked over the coals in court after they passed away. Squabbling relatives, disputes about mental capacity, and a lot of drama accompanied these famous faces’ last wills and testaments after they passed.
Each of the stories behind these disputes involves thousands, if not millions, of dollars, and each seems like it could be the plot of a Lifetime movie. Read through this list to discover Hollywood’s most tumultuous inheritance feuds.
1. Jimi Hendrix
Year: 1970-2002
Est. Amount: $80 million*
Jimi Hendrix passed away intestate, which means he left no will. His attorney managed the Hendrix estate for twenty years until Jimi’s father, Al, sued for the right to manage the legendary guitarist’s music.
Jimi Hendrix © e24.se / Wikimedia Common
Al won the lawsuit and, when Al passed in 2002, Jimi’s $80 million fortune was left to Janie, Al’s adopted granddaughter. Jimi’s brother Leon tried to muscle in on the inheritance, but he lost that court battle and, in a twist worthy of an NBC court show, ended up getting sued himself for illegal merchandise sales.
2. Aaron Spelling
Year: 2006
Est. Amount: $600 million*
Sometimes, the saying, “Father knows best,” is spot-on. Aaron Spelling, a Hollywood producer, left behind a $600 million fortune. Some of his fortune went to his daughter, actress Tori Spelling.
Aaron Spelling/Tori Spelling ©Featureflash Photo Agency / Shutterstock.com
But, Aaron, who produced Beverly Hills 90210 for FOX, knew that his daughter was a compulsive shopper, so he limited her inheritance to just $800,000. Unfortunately, this did nothing to curb Tori’s spending habits, and the heiress was dragged to court in 2023 for owing the IRS more than $1.3 million.
Benjamin Franklin
3. Aretha Franklin
Year: 2018-Present
Est. Amount: $6.7 million*
Some people pass away without a valid will, but, in the case of the musical legend Aretha Franklin, the soul singer had more than one will. Three handwritten wills were found at Franklin’s Detroit home after the singer’s passing in 2018.
Aretha Franklin ©mark reinstein / Shutterstock.com
Then, a fourth turned up in a law office. The multiple wills have resulted in challenges, complications, and other intended results, as they contain differing instructions about what Aretha wanted to do with her $6.7 million estate. There’s enough confusing material in this court battle to make a Netflix documentary about it.
4. James Gandolfini
Year: 2013
Est. Amount: $70 million*
Producer and actor James Gandolfini passed away suddenly at the age of fifty-one in 2013. His estate was worth around $70 million at the time of his passing, and a very public examination of his will followed.
James Gandolfini ©Featureflash Photo Agency / Shutterstock.com
Unfortunately for the WBD star’s family, the IRS ended up taking half of Gandolfini’s estate after an in-depth review of the actor’s will and estate. The rest that Uncle Sam didn’t take was dispersed to family members, including Gandolfini’s sons from his two marriages.
5. James Brown
Year: 2006
Est. Amount: $5-$100 million*
Singer James Brown, known as the Godfather of Soul, passed in 2006 from heart failure at the age of seventy-three, with reports of the estate he left behind is worth anything from $5 million to $100 million.
James Brown ©miqu77 / Shutterstock.com
His will specified that $4 million would go to his kids, while the rest went to I Feel Good, a charity Brown set up for underprivileged children. Brown’s wife, Tommie, contested the will and failed, with a judge describing her suit against the “quite clear” will as “bothersome.”
6. Alan Thicke
Year: 2016-2018
Est. Amount: $16 million*
Alan Thicke passed away in 2016, and the estate battle that followed was a cautionary tale of what happens when a blended family takes to squabbling through lawyers. Two of Thicke’s sons sued Thicke’s third wife, their stepmother, out of fear that she’d seize control of his $16 million estate.
Alan Thicke ©Jason LaVeris / Getty Images
The sons were worried that their stepmother would invalidate her and Alan’s prenup. Eventually, all parties reached a settlement, but the ABC star’s estate remained in limbo for two years.
7. Leona Helmsley
Year: 2007
Est. Amount: $5 billion*
When she passed away in 2007, real estate mogul Leona Helmsley had an estimated fortune worth $5 billion. In her will, Leona requested that her money be given to charity, along with a few relatives. Shockingly, rather than give him a $5 Chewy toy, Helmsley left $12 million to her dog, Trouble.
Leona Helmsley @forbesmagazine / Pinterest
Her grandchildren, who had received much less than Trouble, challenged the will. A judge eventually decreased Trouble’s fortune to just $2 million, giving the rest to charity. Two of Helmsley’s grandchildren got $3 million each as a consolation prize.
8. Michael Jackson
Year: 2009
Est. Amount: $2 million*
Michael Jackson wasn’t just a famous singer and songwriter, the King of Pop was an animal lover. He left his chimpanzee, Bubbles, an inheritance of $2 million to be paid out after Jackson’s passing.
Michael Jackson ©Vicki L. Miller / Shutterstock.com
Bubbles was relocated before Jackson’s passing because the chimp was becoming aggressive, and Jackson worried he would be a danger to his then-infant son. Bubbles was moved to an animal sanctuary, but his $2 million inheritance never stopped being controversial, raising eyebrows and making headlines at WBD,
The New York Times, Fox, and more major media outlets.
9. Nora Ephron
Year: 2012
Est. Amount: $27 million*
When famous author Nora Ephron passed away in 2012, she left behind an estate worth $27 million. Though she and her ex-husband, journalist Carl Bernstein, had long split, she left most of her estate to her two sons from Bernstein, as well as her third husband.
Nora Ephron @bingteam / Pinterest
Ephron only left a few hundred thousand to her sisters, which stoked controversy among the family. The famous author, whose movies like Sleepless in Seattle and When Harry Met Sally played in AMC Entertainment Holdings Inc and other theaters everywhere for decades, saw her estate turn into a real-life dramatic novel in the 2010s, thanks to the unevenness in inheritances.
10. Liliane Bettencourt
Year: 2010-2017
Est. Amount: $40.9 billion*
Liliane Bettencourt was, for a while, France’s richest woman. The heiress to the L’Oreal makeup and skincare fortune, Bettencourt’s estate was worth $40.9 billion when her daughter challenged the heiress’ capacity to write a will while she was still alive.
Liliane Bettencourt ©James Andanson / Getty Images
Bettencourt’s daughter was concerned that her mother had given a photographer, Francois Marie Banier, $1.5 billion in gifts (artwork, cash, and life insurance, primarily) over a span of twenty years. Bettencourt’s daughter challenged her mother’s capacity in 2010, causing estate battles well before Liliane’s passing in 2017.
11. Gene Roddenberry
Year: 1991
Est. Amount: $500 million*
Gene Roddenberry, a famous screenwriter, helped create the Star Trek franchise, which remains one of the most beloved sci-fi series in history. Roddenberry’s estate was worth $500 million when he passed away at the age of seventy in 1991.
Gene Roddenberry @gamerant / Pinterest
Roddenberry had a no-contest clause in his will, which essentially prevented his heirs (three kids from two different marriages) from disputing the legal document. Despite this risk of disinheritance, his daughter, Dawn, disputed the will and was disinherited, losing $500,000 and all claims to Roddenberry’s estate.
12. Wellington Burt
Year: 1919-2013
Est. Amount: $1.5 billion*
Wellington Burt was a wealthy lumber baron who passed away in 1919, and his will was incredibly bizarre. After a fallout with his family members, Burt said that none of them would receive any part of his $1.5 billion (inflation-adjusted) estate.
Wellington Burt ©mlive.com / Wikimedia Common
Instead, Burt said that his descendants would only be able to access his money twenty-one years after his last surviving grandchild. That meant that it wasn’t until 2013 that Burt’s money was shared with his heirs—twelve people who he had never met.
13. John Lennon
Year: 1980-1996
Est. Amount: $502 million*
In 1980, John Legend tragically and abruptly passed, and the world reeled with shock from the news that the Beatles legend was no longer with us. After his death, Yoko Ono, his widow, and his accountant were given control over the Lennon estate, which was worth $502 million.
John Lennon ©emka74 / Shutterstock.com
Ono and her son, Sean, were to be the main beneficiaries, but Lennon’s son, Julian, from a prior marriage, was only given a trust fund. Julian challenged Lennon’s will, and, sixteen years later, he reached a settlement with Ono rumored to be in the $30.5-million range.
14. Fred Koch/The Koch brothers
Year: 1981-2001
Est. Amount: $2.3 billion*
Koch Industries is a billion-dollar energy conglomerate founded by Fred Koch. For nearly twenty years after Fred’s passing, his four sons feuded over their father’s billion-dollar fortune. The dispute centered around $2.3 billion of that money, which two of Fred’s sons, Frederick and William, claimed they were cheated out of receiving.
Fred Koch/The Koch brothers @dailymail / Pinterest
Frederick and William alleged that Fred’s other two sons, Charles and David, swindled them out of cash when they sold their shares of Koch Industries. The four brothers eventually settled, even reconciling in 2001 after years of speaking only through lawyers.
15. Ike Turner
Year: 2007-2009
Est. Amount: $500,000*
R&B singer Ike Turner tragically passed away in 2007, and, posthumously, there were a lot of questions about whether or not he left a binding will. Turner, though he had millions at one point, left very little in terms of personal assets.
Ike Turner ©United Artists Records-publicity release by McFadden / Wikimedia Common
The real money in the crooner’s estate came from royalties and copyrights. Turner’s ex-wives and children became involved in legal battles over their claims to his estate, with multiple parties producing questionable handwritten wills. Eventually, a judge ruled in favor of the Turner children in 2009.
16. Steve McNair
Year: 2009-2011
Est. Amount: $19.6 million*
Steve McNair was an NFL quarterback who passed away suddenly and shockingly in 2009. Despite the fact that he was worth around $19.6 million when he died, McNair had no will, which left his financial affairs in chaos.
Steve McNair ©Keith Allison / Wikimedia Commons
His estate was frozen until his beneficiaries could be ascertained. Two years after that freeze, a judge ruled McNair’s wife and two sons would inherit his fortune, while his two other sons from a prior marriage were named benefactors. McNair’s mother was not included, and she ended up getting evicted from her home, which was owned by McNair’s widow.
17. Gary Coleman
Year: 2010
Est. Amount: $75,000*
Diff’rent Strokes actor Gary Coleman passed away in the Spring of 2010 after a fall, and his ex-wife, Shannon, with whom he had lived after the pair’s divorce, contested Coleman’s will. The will stated that Coleman’s friend, Anna Gray, was to be his executor and beneficiary.
Gary Coleman ©Joe Seer / Shutterstock.com
Shannon Price did not like that too much, and she challenged the will, only to lose shortly later when a judge ruled that Price’s relationship with the late TV star was a very unhappy one, giving her no right to contest the will. Price lost her case, and Gray was named the main recipient of Coleman’s $75,000 estate.
18. Robin Williams
Year: 2014
Est. Amount: $100 million*
The world was devastated when beloved actor Robin Williams passed in 2014 after a long battle with Lewy Body Disease. At the time of his passing, Williams’ estate was worth $100 million, thanks to his prolific acting career.
Robin Williams ©Vicki L. Miller / Shutterstock.com
His third wife, Susan, ended up in court with his kids from his earlier marriages over how Williams’ assets were to be distributed. Eventually, a judge ruled that Susan could keep “symbolic” items (clothing, a bike, gifts, etc.), while the star’s kids ended up with everything else.
19. J. Howard Marshall
Year: 1995-2007
Est. Amount: $1.6 billion*
It was true love when J. Howard Marshall, an eighty-nine-year-old Texan oil billionaire, married a twenty-six-year-old model named Anna Nicole Smith in the mid-1990s. Alas, one year after their nuptials, Marshall passed away, leaving Smith $0 of his $1.6 billion estate.
USMagazine/YouTube
For the rest of her life until her passing in 2007, Smith fought for a stake in Marshall’s estate. Unfortunately, that bid was unsuccessful. Still, when Smith passed, her estate was reportedly worth $1 million, thanks to her own Hollywood career.
20. Nina Wang
Year: 2007
Est. Amount: $4 billion*
Nina Wang was one the richest women in China when she passed away in 2007, leaving behind an estate worth $4 billion. Her partner, Peter Chan, a Feng Shui master, claimed Wang’s inheritance, but he was left with nothing after a court ruling declared Wang’s money would all go to charity.
Nina Wang ©republika.co.id
Later, a criminal investigation discovered that Chan had forged the wealthy widow’s will. This resulted in Chan being sent to jail for twelve years. According to Chan, he has plans to release a tell-all about his relationship with Nina soon.
21. Prince
Year: 2016-2022
Est. Amount: $300 million*
When Prince passed in 2016, he left behind a $300 million estate, but no will (never a good idea when you have a net worth that high). At first, a judge ruled that the late singer’s siblings should inherit his will.
Prince ©Michael Ochs Archives / Getty Images
But, since Prince’s passing, dozens of people have come forward, claiming to be children, ex-wives, and relatives, all seeking a part of his estate. The legal snafu continued until 2022 when it was determined that Prince’s siblings were the rightful heirs all along.
22. George Michael
Year: 2016-2020
Est. Amount: $136 million*
At the age of fifty-three, famous singer George Michael passed away due to heart failure. His 2016 passing took place three years after the frontman had written a will leaving his entire $136 million estate to his older sisters Melanie and Panayiota, his friends, and his father.
George Michael ©Sodel Vladyslav / Shutterstock.com
But, Michael forgot two important people—his boyfriend, Fadi Fawaz, and his ex-boyfriend, Kenny Goss. Goss sued, claiming that Michael had paid $15,000 a month for his lifestyle. Surprisingly, Michael’s ex won, and he received part of the singer’s estate in 2020.
23. Jay Pritzker
Year: 2001
Est. Amount: $1 billion*
Through their Hyatt Hotel empire, Jay and Robert Pritzker built a fortune worth $15 billion. When Jay had a heart attack in 1999 and died, his estate went to his family. Three years after Pritzker’s passing, the mogul’s niece, Liesel, filed a lawsuit against her family members.
Jay Pritzker ©Scott Olson / Getty Images
In the suit, she alleged that her family was dipping into both her and her brother’s trust funds. As it turns out, Liesel was right, and she and her brother won $500 million each as a result of the family’s deceptive behavior (they lost claims to the family assets, though).
24. Johnson & Johnson
Year: 1983
Est. Amount: $400 million*
Steward Johnson was the director of his pharmaceutical company Johnson & Johnson, and, when he passed in 1983, he left the majority of his $400 million estate to his third wife, Barbara. His children were very, very unhappy with this decision.
Johnson & Johnson ©Michael Vi / Shutterstock.com
According to Johnson’s kids, the pharma director had married Barbara, who was forty-two years younger than him, when he was 76. The children contested the will, and it was agreed in a settlement that they would get $6.66 million each.
25. Barbara Hutton
Year: 1933
Est. Amount: $900 million* (Inflation-Adjusted)
Barbara Hutton was the heir to the Woolworth fortune, sourced from a massive chain of eponymous department stores across America. On her twenty-first birthday, Hutton inherited $50 million (around $900 million today, adjusting for inflation) after her mother’s passing.
Barbara Hutton ©Bettmann / Getty Images
After that 1933 inheritance money was deposited into her bank account, Hutton went on some serious spending sprees, buying jewelry, haute couture clothing, and artwork. She also was married seven times, which also put her finances through the wringer. When Hutton passed in 1979, she had almost no money to her name.
26. Whitney Houston
Year: 2012, 2015
Est. Amount: $20 million*
Whitney Houston was a once-in-a-generation talent, known for her hit songs like “I Will Always Love You.” Alas, she passed away at the age of forty-eight, leaving behind a daughter, Bobbi Kristina. Kristina was named Houston’s sole beneficiary in her 1993 will.
Whitney Houston @DAHBOO777/Youtube
Houston’s will required that her $20 million estate be paid out to her daughter in installments, but, when her daughter passed away, the estate went into limbo. That’s when things got complicated, as her ex-husband, Bobby Brown, couldn’t get any of it. Eventually, the estate went to Houston’s two brothers and mother.
27. Philip Seymour Hoffman
Year: 2014
Est. Amount: $35 million*
Oscar winner Philip Seymour Hoffman had a will made in 2004, ten years before his passing. The will included provisions for a trust, along with his estate going to Marianna O’Donnell, his longtime companion. But, when Hoffman died, he had two more kids with O’Donnell.
Philip Seymour Hoffman @timemagazine/Pinterest
There is a law in New York that states that kids born after the will is made can still share in the estate, but Hoffman not updating his will made things far more complicated. Also, O’Donnell ended up having to pay estate taxes because she and Hoffman weren’t married, and these taxes could have totaled $11 million, if not higher.
28. Brooke Astor
Year: 2007
Est. Amount: $198 million*
Wealthy New York socialite Brooke Astor had a net worth of $198 million at the time of her 2007 death, and, as this list proves, estates of that high an amount often cause will disputes. Marshall’s son, Anthony, was the sole executor of Brooke’s estate.
Brooke Astor ©Pool/Getty Images
In an interesting twist, Brooke’s grandson, Philip, alleged that Anthony defrauded his mother during the later stages of her life, stealing millions from her. As it turns out, Philip was right, and Anthony was found guilty of conspiracy, fraud, and larceny, crimes for which he received a sentence of one to three years in prison.
29. Sumner Redstone
Year: 2020 (Still Ongoing)
Est. Amount: $7.7 billion*
Some families just can’t get along. Sumner Redstone and his daughter, Shari, had a history of feuding. The entertainment tycoon announced in 2007 that he was considering not allowing his daughter to succeed him in business. A year later, they began fighting again over a sale of $233 million of their stock.
Sumner Redstone @VanityFair/Pinterest
Redstone passed away in 2020, and The Daily Beast described the “drama” in the family as “sleazy [and] slimy.” Though Sumner and Shari reconciled before his passing, the pre-death litigation before Sumner died carried over posthumously, and the fight over his billions is still ongoing.
30. H.L. Hunt
Year: 2008
Est. Amount: $4 billion*
At one point, H.L. Hunt was one of the wealthiest men in America. Throughout his life, he set up several trusts for his family. In 2008, H.L.’s great-grandchild, Albert Hill, sued his aunts, sisters, father, and H.L.’s nephew, Tom, claiming the group was mismanaging these trust funds, as well as Hunt Petroleum.
H.L. Hunt @SahilBloom/Pinterest
Around $4 billion of Hunt’s $8 billion fortune was disputed in 2008. Tom Hunt chose to sell Hunt Petroleum, and, eventually, Albert was disinherited. Years later, Albert and his wife were indicted for multiple felonies involving mortgage fraud.
31. Ted Williams
Year: 2002
Est. Amount: N/A
Ted Williams was a baseball great, but the circumstances surrounding his will have often overshadowed his career in conversation. In 1996, Williams put in his will that he wanted to be cremated, with his ashes spread out at sea.
Ted Williams @foxsports/Pinterest
When Williams died, however, his estate’s executor tried to claim that the MLB star wanted to be cryogenically frozen in case, in the future, he could be brought back to life. Two of his kids signed off on this, but the third fought against it. Eventually, that third kid caved, and Williams was frozen with his head separated from the rest of his body.
32. Sir Jacob Downing
Year: 1764-1804
Est. Amount: Unconfirmed
This inheritance dispute took place centuries ago, which goes to show that people have been fighting over money since the concept was invented. The University of Cambridge, an esteemed institution, was founded by a hotly-contested bequest from statesman Sir George Downing.
Sir Jacob Downing ©Kurt Pacaud/Shutterstock.com
In the late 1700s, Jacob Downing, George’s last living heir, inherited George’s fortune, which plunged him into a vicious battle with Cambridge over the money. This kicked off a four-decade legal battle over George’s money, and, eventually, Cambridge won. The university had spent so much on legal fees that it had only a little left over, but it persevered, turning that tiny bequest into a historical college.
33. Mark Gruenwald
Year: 1996
Est. Amount: $6 million*
Mark Gruenwald was a pop culture genius, and he had a rather interesting request that was honored. There was no dispute, unlike many of the entries on this list. Gruenwald was the writer of the famous, iconic Captain America character, along with other M.C.U. titles.
Mark Gruenwald @Google/Pinterest
As his last request, he asked that his ashes be mixed with comic book ink. An issue of Squadron Supreme was written with the writer’s ashes mixed in. When Gruenwald passed in 1996, his $6 million estate went to his closest living relatives, including his widow, Catherine.
34. Charles Millar
Year: 1928-1938
Est. Amount: $568,106*
No will is more famous in Toronto than that of Charles Millar, a financier and lawyer. He passed away in 1928, and his last will and testament consisted of a lot of jokes and an unusual caper. In his will, Millar, a childless bachelor, left $568,106 to the mom who birthed the most kids in Toronto during the decade after his death.
Charles Millar @todayifoundout/Pinterest
The papers called it the “Stork Derby.” In 1938, four mothers, each of whom had birthed nine kids, split the prize. One of the contestants wearily promised that she would be practicing birth control now that the Stork Derby was over.
35. Pele
Year: 2022 (Ongoing)
Est. Amount: $100 million*
Soccer great Pele passed away recently, and his widow, Marcia Aoki, his third wife, will inherit 30% of his $100 million fortune. The other 70% will go to his children, and that is where an interesting twist comes in.
Pele ©Ira L. Black – Corbis/Getty Images
In his will, Pele acknowledged an unrecognized woman that could be his daughter. Her recognition depends on a DNA test, which Pele couldn’t do because of his health. Therefore, one of Pele’s recognized children will have to supply the DNA to prove that they have another sibling… though that would mean splitting their fortune four ways.
36. Amy Winehouse
Year: 2019
Est. Amount: $1.38 million*
$1.38 million is now in dispute from late singer Amy Winehouse’s $4.66 estate. Winehouse passed away in 2011, saddening the music world, as the troubled singer was an incredible talent. Her ex-husband, Blake Fielder-Civil, filed the million-dollar lawsuit in 2019.
Amy Winehouse ©Jeff Kravitz/Getty Images
Fielder-Civil, with whom Winehouse shared a tumultuous relationship, was given $346,000 by the singer when they divorced before her passing. Years later, he sued, claiming he should have gotten more money because he was married to Winehouse when her top-charting music was released.
37. Paul Walker
Year: 2013
Est. Amount: $25 million*
Tragically, in late 2013, actor Paul Walker passed away after a fiery car crash. The news shocked the world, and, ten years later, he is still remembered fondly. His daughter, Meadow Rain, was the sole inheritor to Walker’s $25 million fortune.
Paul Walker @lunaestudio20/Pinterest
However, Meadow’s mother, Rebecca Soteros, disputed that inheritance, claiming she should be given some of Walker’s money. Meadow had been living with her dad for two years before his passing, as the actor wanted to spend more time with her. Her mother ended up not getting any of Meadow’s inheritance, and that eight-figure sum became hers to access when she turned eighteen.
38. Cory Monteith
Year: 2013-2015
Est. Amount: $810,000*
Cory Monteith starred in Glee, a popular musical sitcom, and his passing in 2013 shocked everyone. He was just thirty-one at the time of his death, and his fortune was worth $810,000. His parents, Ann McGregor and Joe Monteith began fighting over his estate shortly thereafter.
Cory Monteith @people/Pinterest
The actor was young when he died, and he didn’t have a will, leaving it up to the courts to decide who got his money. Eventually, Canadian courts sided in favor of his mother, who received most of Monteith’s estate after his father admitted that he abandoned the actor as a child.
39. Heath Ledger
Year: 2008
Est. Amount: $20 million*
This story has a happy ending, thanks to the integrity of the people involved. Talented actor Heath Ledger passed away in 2008, five years after making a will that stated that his fortune would be split between his parents and sisters evenly.
Heath Ledger @hollywoodlife/Pinterest
Two years later, in 2005, his daughter, Matilda, was born. But, Ledger did not update his will, making his a cautionary tale. Luckily, his parents and siblings chose to gift the actor’s entire estate to Matilda Rose, his rightful heir, putting $20 million into a trust for her benefit.
40. Marilyn Monroe
Year: 1962
Est. Amount: $7.8 million* (Inflation-Adjusted)
The story behind Marilyn Monroe’s inheritance is a complicated one. The famous actress passed away in the late summer of 1962, leaving the majority of her estate to Lee Strasberg, her acting coach.
Marilyn Monroe ©M. Garrett/Getty Images
When Strasberg passed away, his wife, Anna, inherited that money from Strasberg. Though she and Marilyn didn’t know each other, Anna licensed Marilyn’s likeness to hundreds of companies and auctioned off the actress’ belongings, making tens of millions of dollars. Because Monroe had been somewhat vague in the wording of her will, Anna was able to controversially profit off of her image.
41. Brittany Murphy
Year: 2009
Est. Amount: $10 million*
Brittany Murphy passed away in 2009, leaving a lot of questions behind. Very few of these questions have been answered. Murphy did have an estate plan, but it was not finished when she passed due to pneumonia.
Brittany Murphy ©Michael Bezjian/Getty Images
Murphy’s husband, Simon, was notoriously controlling (he wouldn’t even let her have a cell phone), but, when the actress died and left $10 million behind, he was not the beneficiary of her estate—her mother was. Murphy even stated in her will that she intentionally left Simon out. Unfortunately, because her estate plan was unfinished when she passed, all of her assets went to her husband, who she never wanted to be a beneficiary.
42. Kurt Cobain
Year: 1994
Est. Amount: $450 million*
In 1994, Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain passed away, and twenty years later, the fight over his nine-figure estate was still ongoing. Cobain’s widow, Courtney Love, was at the center of many of the disputes.
Kurt Cobain @satursuee/Pinterest
For example, in 2004, Love claimed she was going to sue, stating that Cobain’s estate managers had stolen millions from the late singer. The lawsuit never actually happened, but it was just one example of the many fights Love caused over Cobain’s inheritance. Because Cobain died intestate, Love was put in charge of his will, even though she had a long, admitted history of instability.
43. Aaliyah
Year: 2001-2021
Est. Amount: $8 million*
In this case, the dispute here centers around a music catalog. Aaliyah was a singer-songwriter who passed away in the nineties. After her passing, Aaliyah LLC, owned by her mother and brother, was put in charge of her estate.
Aaliyah ©Kevin Mazur/Getty Images
But, Aaliyah’s music catalog is still owned by Barry Hankerson, her uncle. Hankerson has been hell-bent on releasing the singer’s catalog, but he is currently locked in a fight with her estate, who calls the move “unscrupulous” and full of “shadowy…deception.”
44. Judith Barsi
Year: 1988
Est. Amount: $400,000*
By the time Judith Barsi was in the fourth grade, she was already earning $100,000 a year, thanks to her roles in Land Before Time, All Dogs Go To Heaven, and Jaws: The Revenge. The actress was active in Hollywood for just four years, but she managed to make a net worth of almost half a million.
Judith Barsi ©Punky Brewster/Wikimedia
Her funds helped her family nab a three-bedroom home in West Hills, L.A., and Barsi was her home’s main breadwinner at the age of ten. Ten was when she passed in a shocking incident, along with her father and mother. It’s not clear who got the child’s money in 1988, and the entire incident surrounding her death is still, to this day, shocking.
45. Freddie Mercury
Year: 1991
Est. Amount: $40 million*
Freddie Mercury described his ex-fiancee, Mary Austin, as the “love of [his] life.” When he passed, he made a final request of her: that she collect his ashes and dispose of them privately, never telling anyone of their location.
Freddie Mercury ©Dave Hogan/Getty Images
Mary Austin did what Mercury said, and she also inherited his $10 million fortune, along with a $30 million home. Later, Austin would state in interviews that she felt somewhat cursed by this windfall, as his bandmates became resentful and hateful when she got his money. In a later interview, Austin compared their “jealousy” to a “Japanese bullet train.”
46. Princess Diana
Year: 1997
Est. Amount: $25 million*
Princess Diana passed away in 1997 after a car crash in Paris, and the entire world mourned. She was one of the most beloved members of the Royal Family, and there are still plenty of Diana loyalists today (particularly in America).
Princess Diana ©Tim Graham/Getty Images
Diana signed documents in 1993 dispersing her estate to several different people. Primarily, her beneficiaries were her sons, Princes William and Harry. William and Harry experienced a delay in getting their inheritance, thanks to Diana’s sister and mother successfully challenging her will in a highly-publicized inheritance dispute.
47. River Phoenix
Year: 1993
Est. Amount: $6 million*
In the early morning of Halloween in 1993, River Phoenix was found dead outside of the Viper Room, a club partially owned by Johnny Depp. The tabloids covered Phoenix’s passing closely, as his public image, before the cause of death was revealed, had been squeaky clean.
River Phoenix @people/Pinterest
In 1994, Phoenix’s estate was sued by production and insurance companies over two unreleased movies. These companies claimed they’d lost millions due to his passing, accusing him of “breach of contract.” They didn’t win the $6 million suit, as the case was dismissed three years later.
48. Steve Irwin
Year: 2006
Est. Amount: $40 million*
The Daily Mail called the Irwin family “Australia’s first family.” They became famous thanks to Steve Irwin, also known as the Crocodile Hunter. The wildlife expert had a net worth of $40 million when he passed away in 2006 due to a stingray attack.
Steve Irwin @imgur/Pinterest
In recent years, the family has been “ripped apart” by a feud between Irwin’s daughter, Bindi, and her grandfather, Bob. Bindi claimed her grandfather had “ignor[ed]” her all her life, and the rest of the family disputed those claims. The two have feuded publicly for more than a decade, with both sides taking shots at the other in the media.
49. James Dean
Year: 19
Est. Amount: $2 million* (Inflation-Adjusted)
Hollywood icon James Dean passed away in 1955, and, because he died without a will, his assets were passed to his father, even though Dean’s aunt and uncle raised him. Nearly forty years after his passing, Warner Bros. sued Dean’s estate, claiming they had defrauded them of $30 million.
James Dean ©Bettmann/Getty Images
Warner Bros. claimed that the estate was licensing Dean’s image unlawfully, when the rights to that license belonged only to them, the studio. Eventually, a California federal court found in favor of the estate, saying that they had the “sole right” to profit from the actor’s legacy.
50. Selena
Year: 2012-2021
Est. Amount: $25 million*
For a long time, there was a lot of feuding over the inheritance of Selena Quintanilla, a singer-songwriter who was an icon in the music industry. Selena’s life and legacy begat a legal feud between Chris Perez, her widower, and the rest of her family.
Selena @HeshlynAshna/Twitter
After Selena died, Perez signed over the rights to her estate to her family. In 2012, Perez wrote a memoir that he wanted to turn into a movie, but Selena’s father sued him for exploiting her image. Nine years later, the suit was eventually settled out of court, with both the Quintanilla family and Perez tweeting similar messages about “going forward” and “amicable” resolution.
51. Tina Turner
Year: 2023
Est. Amount: $250 million*
Tina Turner was one of the greatest musicians of all time. She was a true rockstar, and she will be missed, as the eighty-two-year-old artist passed away in late May of 2023. In addition to other questions, some may be wondering who will inherit her estate.
Tina Turner ©Paul Natkin/Getty Images
Don’t worry, as it certainly won’t be Ike. Turner’s net worth is $250 million, and, with that much money, it’s to be expected that she left behind some sort of will leaving her property to her husband, children, and other loved ones. We’ll have to stay turned to see whether any disputes arise, as a quarter of a billion dollars is quite a lot.
52. Conrad Hilton
Year: 1979
Est. Amount: $600,000*
Hotelier Conrad Hilton’s famous last name came from him becoming a global hospitality tycoon. Of the family, socialite Paris Hilton is the best-known. Though people might assume Paris and her family inherited Conrad’s billions, that just isn’t true.
Conrad Hilton ©Bachrach/Getty Images
Hilton famously left his family very little when he passed in 1979 at the ripe old age of ninety-one. He left $10,000 each to his daughter, nieces, and nephews, and half a million to his two siblings. The rest went to charity, leaving the Hiltons to make it on their own.
53. David Koch
Year: 2019
Est. Amount: $50 billion*
The Koch family seems to have learned a lot from their former inheritance disputes, which splashed out messily through the tabloids and caused family rifts and public discord. David Koch passed away in 2019, leaving billions behind.
David Koch ©Neilson Barnard/Getty Images
After his passing, things appear to have gone smoothly, with Koch’s wife, Julia, and their three kids inheriting a 42% stake in Koch Industries. Koch’s heirs benefited greatly from tax loopholes—had David passed between 1941 and 1981, his estate would’ve incurred a 70% estate tax.
54. Kobe Bryant
Year: 2020
Est. Amount: $600 million*
The world was absolutely stunned when Kobe Bryant passed before his time, along with his daughter, in a plane crash. The 2020 incident was devastating to Bryant’s family, as well as shocking to his fans worldwide.
Kobe Bryant ©Featureflash Photo Agency/Shutterstock.com
At the time of his death, Bryant’s net worth was around $600 million. His estate passed to his wife and remaining kids, but there was a wrinkle—his seven-month-old daughter, Capri, was inadvertently left out of the inheritance, a mistake the family corrected privately, no doubt.
55. Tony Hsieh
Year: 2020
Est. Amount: $840 million*
Internet entrepreneur Tony Hsieh passed away in 2020, and his net worth, at the time of his passing, was almost $1 billion. The Zappos founder did not leave a will, as his death was unexpected.
Tony Hsieh ©Delivering Happiness Book/Wikimedia
What he left behind was a bit of a financial mess, and his family and friends have been in court for three years fighting over their inheritance. Some are filing claims with the courts, presenting sticky notes, written between them and Hsieh, promising financial deals that they now want to cash in on.
56. Chyna
Year: 2016
Est. Amount: $500,000*
“The Ninth Wonder of the World,” also known by her wrestling name, Chyna, was born in 1969 in New York, and she passed away in 2020, twenty-five years after her debut in the world of professional wrestling.
Chyna ©Spencer Platt/Getty Images
According to Chyna’s former colleague, Mick Foley, Chyna’s mother had a hard time “attempting to gain control of [Chyna’s] estate.” Though there was “not a lot of money left,” Chyna’s mom had to fight the former pro’s manager to get ahold of her daughter’s “personal effects,” said Foley.
57. Joan Rivers
Year: 2014
Est. Amount: $150 million*
There have been disputes about how much, exactly, Melissa Rivers inherited from her mother, Joan Rivers’, estate. Though some say Joan had a net worth of $150 million when she passed, Melissa disagrees, calling that figure a “giant exaggeration.”
Joan Rivers ©Jason LaVeris/Getty Images
What isn’t an exaggeration is that Rivers left her fortune to Melissa, as well as her staff, grandson, beloved dogs, and charities. Rivers also provided clear, strict instructions to her loved ones on how to care for her four rescue dogs, with whom she was enamored.
58. Peaches Geldof
Year: 2014
Est. Amount: $350,000*
Peaches Geldof was famous in England for her modeling, column-writing, and TV personality. The London native was taken before her time, as she passed away in 2014 while still in her twenties. After her passing, some surprising information came out about her financial affairs.
Peaches Geldof ©Dave M. Benett/Getty Images
Apparently, Peaches had almost half a million dollars in debts at the time of her passing, and her estate had to pay those out before it could be dispersed. The remainder went to her husband, Thomas Cohen, who inherited a total of around $350,000.
59. Nipsey Hussle
Year: 2019
Est. Amount: $4.169 million*
On March 31, 2019, the world was absolutely shocked when rapper Nipsey Hussle was killed in his hometown of Los Angeles. He passed away outside of a clothing store that he owned, and police later attributed the crime to a personal dispute.
Nipsey Hussle ©Randy Shropshire/Getty Images
Nipsey didn’t have a will, which complicated things after his passing. Three years after his death, his estate finally passed through probate court, and it was announced that the rapper’s two kids, Kross and Emani, would get $2 million of those assets when they became of age.
60. Billy Mays
Year: 2009
Est. Amount: $10 million*
Remember Billy Mays? The boisterous TV pitchman was a common sight for those watching infomercials at 3 A.M. The salesperson promoted many different products during his time onscreen, including Zorbeez, Kaboom, Orange Glo, and OxiClean.
Billy Mays ©Jeffrey Ufberg/Getty Images
When he passed away, Mays had a net worth of $10 million and, unfortunately, no will. His death was also a bit complex, as it took two autopsies to get the correct result. His passing was a shame, one that, as CBS News put it, “the media decline[d] to take seriously.” Presumably, his $10 million fortune went to his family—the ones who demanded a second autopsy.
61. Hank Williams Sr.
Year: 1953
Est. Amount: $100,000*
The Hank Williams Sr. inheritance dispute took over thirty years to resolve itself. As it turned out, the country star had a few kids that he didn’t speak publicly about, and they came out of the woodwork after his passing to lay claim to his estate.
Hank Williams Sr. ©WSM radio/Wikimedia
Eventually, a court would rule that Jett Williams, one of Hank’s “illegitimate” kids,” could share in her father’s royalties. Another daughter, this one in Alabama, was denied a $12 million claim against the company that insured Williams’ estate. Overall, the country star’s estate resolution was a long, complicated affair.
62. Lenny Bruce
Year: 1966
Est. Amount: $1 million*
Comedian Lenny Bruce was famous for his boundary-pushing comedy, which he began spouting onstage in 1947. He had a career that lasted until his passing in 1966, and there weren’t many topics Bruce wasn’t able to tackle.
Lenny Bruce ©Examiner Press photo/Wikimedia
Kitty Bruce, Lenny’s daughter with ex-wife Honey Harlow, mostly inherited his fortune, and he described Lenny as a “complex individual,” “a loving father,” and a man who was “literally…fighting for his life.”
63. Judy Garland
Year: 1969
Est. Amount: $40,000*
Really, the drama with actress Judy Garland’s fortune begins well before her passing. Garland had a net worth of just $40,000 ($300,000 in today’s money) at the time of her passing, which was a bit low, considering how big of a star she was.
Judy Garland ©Studio Publicity/Wikimedia
Mismanagement and embezzlement caused Garland’s fortune to dwindle, and there wasn’t much left over when she passed in 1969. It’s unclear who got her fortune, as Garland had lost custody of her kids to her ex, Sidney Luft, before she died.
64. Bruce Lee
Year: 1973
Est. Amount: $10 million*
According to the family of the late Bruce Lee, they “never knew” if he had made a will or any estate plans, as they “never asked” because the family “never thought he would pass” at just thirty-two years old.
Bruce Lee ©National General Pictures/Wikimedia
The action star was worth $10 million at the time of his passing, having begun amassing his fortune when he nailed his first role at one year old. It is believed that Bruce’s widow, Linda Lee Caldwell, inherited Lee’s fortune, and she also earned all royalties from his posthumous, successful film releases.
65. Jim Morrison
Year: 1971
Est. Amount: $400,000*
Rocker Jim Morrison was taken too young. The Doors band member left his entire estate to his beloved girlfriend, Pamela Courson, and he stated in his will that, if Courson also passed, his estate would be split between his two siblings.
Jim Morrison ©Elektra Records/Wikimedia
Three years after Jim died, Pamela died, and her entire estate, including what she got from her late boyfriend, went to her parents. This sparked an intense feud between the Coursons and Morrisons, culminating in a settlement that, basically, split things down the middle.
66. Sid Vicious
Year: 1979
Est. Amount: $400,000*
English musician Sid Vicious passed away in the late 1970s, leaving behind a net worth of around $400,000. It is thought that his cousins inherited his fortune, and some reports even claim that Vicious’ estate still makes $400,000 a year in royalties.
Sid Vicious ©Hulton Archive/Getty Images
Those statements have never been confirmed, though it does stand to reason that Vicious music still sells. After all, the musician was the bassist for the Sex Pistols, one of the most infamous punk bands of all time.
67. John Belushi
Year: 1982
Est. Amount: $2 million*
When actor John Belushi died, infamously, in the eighties, he left his entire estate to his wife, Judith. He didn’t leave anything for his parents, and he was very specific in his will that everything goes to Judith.
John Belushi ©Images Press/Getty Images
But, the fallout from his passing still reverberates today. In 2015, Belushi’s widow finally settled a longstanding court case with her ex-husband, as a Massachusetts appeals court determined that she didn’t have to share Blues Brothers rights with her second husband after their divorce.
68. David Kennedy
Year: 1984
Est. Amount: $4.75 million*
The Kennedy family has been marked by tragedy through the decades, and David Kennedy was one of many examples of that bad luck streak. The twenty-nine-year-old passed away in 1984 after he was found unresponsive at the Brazilian Court Hotel & Beach Club in Palm Beach, Florida.
David Kennedy ©Images Press/Getty Images
Stocks and bonds, real estate, family foundations, and oil holdings made up David’s fortune, which likely reverted back into the Kennedy family coffers after his untimely passing. When he passed, some placed David’s net worth at almost $5 million.
69. Truman Capote
Year: 1984
Est. Amount: $10 million*
Writer Truman Capote led a wild life, and just a couple of paragraphs won’t do it justice. When he met his end in the eighties, he had amassed a sizable fortune, much of which he left to his longtime partner Jack Dunphy.
Truman Capote ©John Downing/Getty Images
Dunphy passed away eight years after Truman did, and the pair’s house went to the Nature Conservancy, who later sold it to Ross Bleckner, an artist, for $800,000. In 2016, there was an auction of Capote’s personal items. This unusual auction resulted in, among other things, Capote’s ashes selling for $45,000.
70. Chet Baker
Year: 1988
Est. Amount: $8 million*
Trumpeter Chet Baker was nicknamed “The Prince of Cool,” thanks to his innovations in the world of cool jazz. Chet passed away in 1988 in the Netherlands, and much of his fortune went to his wife, Carol, to whom he was married from 1965 until his passing.
Chet Baker ©Michiel Hendryckx/Wikimedia
Decades later, Chet’s estate would sue Sony over copyright infringement and past-due royalties. Chet’s son wrote to the judge, urging him to approve a settlement that would see Sony and other labels pay out $45 million to artists they had wronged.
71. Phyllis Hyman
Year: 1995
Est. Amount: $5 million*
Singer and actress Phyllis Hyman was famous for her music during the eighties, with hit singles like “Living All Alone,” “You Know How To Love Me,” and “Don’t Wanna Change The World.” She passed away in 1995 in New York City, just a few hours before she was slated to perform at the Apollo.
Phyllis Hyman ©John Mathew Smith/Wikimedia
Some of Phyllis’ fortune went to her family, and it is not clear whether she had a will or not. The singer wasn’t married, only divorced, and she had no kids, as she had been afraid to pass on the bipolar disorder that ran in her family.
72. Aaron Hernandez
Year: 2017
Est. Amount: $9 million*
The story of Aaron Hernandez is a sad one, and we all know how it ended a few years ago. His passing made headlines, with many questioning the motives behind the NFL star’s fall from grace.
Aaron Hernandez ©Jeffrey Beall/Wikimedia
To this day, Hernandez’s fortune is still in dispute. His former fiancée is currently in a battle with Hernandez’ trust’s attorney over how the money in the NFL player’s irrevocable trust is being spent. The dispute between the two was sparked when the lawyer refused to pay a near-$11,000 bill for Hernandez’ daughter’s dance lessons.
73. Roberto Clemente
Year: 1972
Est. Amount: $300,000*
Roberto Clemente was a famous MLB star who played eighteen seasons in the pros, amassing 3,000 hits along the way. Clemente, like many celebrities, was taken before his time in a helicopter crash.
Roberto Clemente ©Bettmann/Getty Images
At the time of his shocking passing, the baseball star had a net worth of $300,000—in today’s money, that’s almost $2 million. His fortune and personal effects reverted to his loved ones, including his wife and the rest of his family. Interestingly, in 2017, his family chose to auction off some of these memorabilia, a decision with which not everyone agreed.
74. Bernie Madoff
Year: 2021
Est. Amount: $68 million*
Chances are, most of us reading know who Bernie Madoff is. The disgraced pioneer masterminded history’s largest Ponzi scheme, worth almost $65 billion. Madoff was sentenced to a century-and-a-half in prison in 2009.
Bernie Madoff ©Mario Tama/Getty Images
He served eleven years of it until he passed away due to kidney failure while still incarcerated. As for his fortune, it was obliterated. His late wife was allowed to keep $1-$2 million of it, while the government seized the rest of Madoff’s assets as part of his “restitution.”
75. Ned Johnson III
Year: 2022
Est. Amount: $8.4 billion*
Businessman Ned Johnson III passed just over a year ago. He and his daughter, Abigail, ran Fidelity Investments and International, and his net worth was well over $8 billion at the time of his passing.
Ned Johnson III @Google/Pinterest
People have wondered who will inherit his fortune, and that question is still, as of yet, unanswered. His passing is relatively recent, and it remains to be seen whether the posthumous dispersal of his estate will be smooth and conflict-free.
76. Randy Savage
Year: 2011
Est. Amount: $8 million*
Wrestling fans will know who Macho Man Randy Savage is, as he has remained one of the most famous wrestlers of all time. Randy passed away in Florida in May of 2011, forty years after debuting in the ring.
Randy Savage ©Rob DiCaterino/Wikimedia
Macho Man Randy Savage left his fortune to his wife, Lynn, who he married in 2010. According to the coroner who performed Savage’s autopsy, his demise was caused by an enlarged heart and severely blocked coronary arteries.
77. Marlon Brando
Year: 2004
Est. Amount: $21.6 million*
Marlon Brando, the acclaimed Godfather of Hollywood, passed away in 2004, leaving behind a legacy worth an estimated $21.6 million. The news of his passing saddened millions of fans worldwide, but it was his will that created a stir, almost like a twist in one of his movies.
Marlon Brando r/popculturechat/Pinterest
Brando’s will disinherited some of his offspring, stirring the pot of controversy and sparking legal battles among family members. The lion’s share of Brando’s estate went to his other children and a select few close friends. But like any good Hollywood tale, the excluded parties didn’t go quietly, making for a compelling saga befitting the legendary actor’s life.
78. Frank Sinatra
Year: 1998
Est. Amount: $200 million*
Old Blue Eyes Frank Sinatra departed the world stage in 1998, leaving an estate valued at an astonishing $200 million. But it was his will, not his fortune, that claimed the limelight. Coined the Sinatra Doctrine, his last testament included a strategic “no contest” clause, a pioneering move in probate law at the time.
Frank Sinatra /commons.wikimedia.org
According to this clause, any beneficiary who contested the will stood to lose their entire inheritance. This clause served as an ingenious deterrent to potential discord and legal wrangling among his heirs. Sinatra, always the master performer, ensured his final act was as sharp and decisive as his legendary career.
79. Audrey Hepburn
Year: 1993
Est. Amount: $100 million*
The ever-charming Audrey Hepburn, icon of the silver screen and humanitarian, passed away in 1993. Her estate, estimated at $100 million, was the subject of a bitter feud between her two sons. The bone of contention was her extensive wardrobe collection, memorabilia, and photo archive.
Audrey Hepburn /commons.wikimedia.org
Hepburn, renowned for her roles in timeless classics like Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Roman Holiday, left a legacy that continues to inspire today. Despite the protracted legal battle, Hepburn’s grace and elegance remain an integral part of her enduring charm, an attribute that transcends even the most acrimonious of family disputes.
80. Elvis Presley
Year: 1977
Est. Amount: $10 million* (Presley’s estate has since grown substantially due to posthumous earnings)
The King of Rock n’ Roll, Elvis Presley, left an estimated $10 million estate when he died in 1977. Managed by his ex-wife Priscilla Presley, the estate ballooned to an estimated $300 million due to smart investments in music rights and the transformation of Graceland into a lucrative tourist attraction.
Elvis Presley /commons.wikimedia.org
However, Elvis’s will became the center of controversy when his daughter Lisa Marie Presley claimed she was swindled out of her father’s fortune by her business manager. The ongoing legal saga is as high-stakes as one of Elvis’s pulsating rock and roll numbers, casting a shadow over the star’s glittering legacy.
81. Johnny Carson
Year: 2005
Est. Amount: $300 million*
When talk show legend Johnny Carson passed away in 2005, he left behind a hefty estate valued at $450 million. Rather than family squabbles or legal disputes, Carson’s last testament surprised many by allocating the majority of his wealth to a charitable foundation.
Johnny Carson /Pinterest
His will displayed a philanthropic spirit that was largely unseen during his lifetime. The Johnny Carson Foundation continues to fund educational, health, and social services for children and families, ensuring the talk show host’s legacy of laughter and goodwill persists, a fitting encore to a lifetime of entertainment.
82. Anna Nicole Smith
Year: 2007
Est. Amount: Unknown
When the ex-Playboy model and reality TV star Anna Nicole Smith passed away suddenly in 2007, it ignited a protracted legal battle over her inheritance from her late husband, oil tycoon J. Howard Marshall II. Marshall, 62 years her senior, had an estimated worth of $1.6 billion.
Anna Nicole Smith ©Tinseltown/Shutterstock.com
Despite being married for 13 months before his death in 1995, Anna was not included in his will. She challenged the will, insisting that Marshall had intended to leave her half of his estate. This marked the beginning of a bitter and drawn-out legal feud that outlived Anna herself, casting a cloud over her turbulent life and tragically brief career.
83. Bettie Page
Year: 2008
Est. Amount: $10 million*
The Queen of Pinups, Bettie Page, left behind an estate valued at $10 million when she passed away in 2008. Despite leading a relatively obscure life after her modeling career, her iconic status and image continued to generate substantial revenue after her death. Legal battles ensued between her heirs and her manager, who was appointed as the trustee of her estate.
Bettie Page /commons.wikimedia.org
The contentious issue at the heart of the feud was the commercial use of Page’s image. Her life, like her career, was filled with contrasts and contradictions, culminating in an inheritance dispute that mirrored the controversy and glamour of her heyday.
84. John F. Kennedy Jr.
Year: 1999
Est. Amount: $100 million*
The only son of President John F. Kennedy, John F. Kennedy Jr., passed away tragically in a plane crash in 1999. Inheriting a fortune from the Kennedy estate estimated at $100 million, his will stipulated that in the event of his death, his wealth would be divided among several relatives.
John F. Kennedy Jr. r/celebs/Reddit
However, this led to simmering tensions and disagreements among family members over their respective shares. The legacy of JFK Jr., like the Kennedy family itself, is steeped in allure, tragedy, and intrigue, with his inheritance saga becoming yet another chapter in the family’s storied history.
85. Tupac Shakur
Year: 1996
Est. Amount: $40 million*
Tupac Shakur, the iconic rapper and actor, was tragically gunned down in 1996. His untimely death ignited a legal battle over his estate, estimated to be worth around $40 million at the time of his death. The feud primarily involved his mother, Afeni Shakur, and Death Row Records, with disputes over rights to Tupac’s unreleased music.
Tupac Shakur ©/Shutterstock.com
The legal wrangling continued even after Afeni’s passing in 2016, when her estranged husband sought a part of Tupac’s inheritance. Even in death, the life of Tupac, one of hip-hop’s most influential figures, continues to be marked by controversy and discord.
86. Notorious B.I.G.
Year: 1997
Est. Amount: $20 million*
Christopher Wallace, better known as Notorious B.I.G., was another iconic figure in hip-hop whose life was cut tragically short. Shot dead in 1997, Biggie Smalls left behind an estate estimated to be worth $160 million today. His mother, Voletta Wallace, and widow, singer Faith Evans, have been the caretakers of his estate.
Notorious B.I.G. ©Chris Walter/Getty Images
While there haven’t been public legal battles over his inheritance, the handling of Biggie’s posthumous releases and the management of his estate have come under scrutiny. As with his life and career, the story of Biggie’s inheritance is deeply intertwined with the history and evolution of hip-hop.
87. Stan Lee
Year: 2018
Est. Amount: $50 million*
Marvel comic book legend Stan Lee passed away in 2018, leaving behind an estate valued at approximately $50 million. Known for creating iconic characters such as Spider-Man, the Hulk, and Iron Man, Lee’s passing saw a slew of legal battles over his estate.
Stan Lee /commons.wikimedia.org
His daughter, Joan Celia Lee, faced allegations of elder abuse towards her father, and various lawsuits involving former business associates and caregivers added layers of complexity to the inheritance dispute. These legal entanglements somewhat marred the legacy of a man who, through his creativity and imagination, had a profound impact on popular culture.
88. Doris Duke
Year: 1993
Est. Amount: $1.2 billion*
Doris Duke, the tobacco heiress and socialite, passed away in 1993 with a fortune estimated at $1.2 billion. Known as the “richest girl in the world,” Duke’s will named her butler, Bernard Lafferty, as the executor of her estate. This sparked a slew of disputes, including allegations that Lafferty and his lawyers had manipulated Duke to gain control of her wealth.
Doris Duke ©/Getty Images
Though the courts upheld Duke’s will, the drawn-out, scandal-ridden saga offered a tantalizing glimpse into the secretive world of the ultra-wealthy, where loyalty and greed often go hand in hand.
89. Bing Crosby
Year: 1977
Est. Amount: $550 million*
Famed American singer and actor Bing Crosby, known for hits like White Christmas, died in 1977, leaving an estate worth an estimated $100 million. Despite his considerable fortune, Crosby divided his wealth in an unusual way.
Bing Crosby /commons.wikimedia.org
Rather than leaving his entire estate to his family, he set up trusts for his second wife and children, and the bulk of his wealth was donated to Gonzaga University, his alma mater. Though this arrangement avoided the sort of disputes that often accompany celebrity estates, it also left his family with a smaller inheritance than might have been expected.
90. Doris Day
Year: 2019
Est. Amount: $200 million*
Famed actress and singer Doris Day, one of Hollywood’s biggest stars in the 1950s and ’60s, passed away in 2019 with an estate valued at over $200 million. A passionate animal rights activist, Day stipulated in her will that the majority of her wealth should be directed towards her animal foundation, a decision that reflected her lifelong devotion to animal welfare.
Doris Day /commons.wikimedia.org
The choice to bequeath her vast fortune to animals, rather than to her only grandson, led to some whispers of discontent. Yet, the decision seems emblematic of Day herself, a star who lived life on her own terms, even in death.
91. Stanley Kubrick
Year: 1999
Est. Amount: $20 million*
The esteemed director Stanley Kubrick, who gifted the world cinematic masterpieces like A Clockwork Orange and 2001: A Space Odyssey, passed away in 1999. Kubrick left an estimated $20 million estate to his third wife, Christiane, and his three daughters.
Stanley Kubrick /commons.wikimedia.org
Despite the absence of any major disputes, the inheritance process drew attention due to Kubrick’s intricate web of companies and properties, which demonstrated the director’s meticulous nature. His wife and daughters have since dedicated their efforts to preserving Kubrick’s legacy, showcasing the same zeal for detail and perfection that defined his career.
92. Maurice Sendak
Year: 2012
Est. Amount: $20 million*
Maurice Sendak, renowned author and illustrator of children’s literature, most notably Where the Wild Things Are, died in 2012 leaving an estate valued around $20 million. A legal feud erupted between the executors of Sendak’s estate and the Rosenbach Museum in Philadelphia, where Sendak had loaned many of his works for decades.
Maurice Sendak /commons.wikimedia.org
The dispute centered around Sendak’s will, which bequeathed his “rare edition” books to the museum. The disagreement over what constituted a “rare edition” led to a lengthy court battle, casting a shadow over the legacy of a man who brought joy to millions of children.
93. Harper Lee
Year: 2016
Est. Amount: $35 million*
Harper Lee, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of To Kill a Mockingbird, passed away in 2016, leaving an estate valued at over $45 million. Lee never married nor had children and left her estate to a trust.
Harper Lee ©Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images
Disputes arose when her lawyer, Tonja Carter, became the trustee and executor of her will, leading to suspicions of elder abuse and manipulation. The opaque nature of the trust and the secretive handling of Lee’s unpublished works have since led to controversy and intrigue, with many questioning the motives and methods of those controlling her legacy.
94. Jackie Collins
Year: 2015
Est. Amount: $180 million*
Bestselling author Jackie Collins passed away in 2015, leaving an estate valued at $30 million. Famous for her glamourous and dramatic tales of Hollywood’s elite, Collins meticulously planned her estate to avoid family disputes.
Jackie Collins /commons.wikimedia.org
She divided her fortune equally among her three daughters and ensured that her future royalties would continue to provide for her family. By handling her estate with the same savvy she applied to her writing, Collins ensured that her death didn’t lead to the kind of drama that typified her novels.
95. Charles Schulz
Year: 2000
Est. Amount: $1.1 billion*
Charles Schulz, the legendary creator of the Peanuts comic strip, passed away in 2000, leaving behind a colossal estate worth an estimated $1.1 billion. In his will, Schulz left the bulk of his fortune to his wife, Jean, with a smaller portion going to his five children from his first marriage.
Charles Schulz /commons.wikimedia.org
The real controversy began after his death, with disputes over control and profits from the Peanuts franchise. The children were reportedly unhappy with their share, which led to lingering tensions and lawsuits that seemed more akin to a soap opera than the innocent world of Charlie Brown and Snoopy.
96. Michael Crichton
Year: 2008
Est. Amount: $175 million*
Michael Crichton, best known for creating the blockbuster franchise Jurassic Park, passed away unexpectedly in 2008 due to cancer, leaving an estate worth an estimated $175 million. His fifth wife, Sherri Alexander, was pregnant at the time of his death.
Michael Crichton /commons.wikimedia.org
The ensuing legal battle saw Crichton’s adult daughter, Taylor, and Sherri battling over the unborn child’s inheritance rights. The case eventually led to a change in Californian law, granting posthumously conceived children the right to inherit if the parent explicitly acknowledged them in their will.
97. Frank Herbert
Year: 1986
Est. Amount: $20 million*
Frank Herbert, the revered science fiction author of Dune, died in 1986, leaving his literary assets to his wife and two sons. After his wife’s death, his son, Brian Herbert, assumed control of the estate and began extending the Dune franchise with numerous sequels and prequels, co-authored with Kevin J. Anderson.
Frank Herbert writersofthefuture/Pinterest
While this move proved profitable, it was also contentious. Many diehard “Dune” fans criticized the additional books, stating they didn’t reflect the depth and complexity of the original series. While not a legal dispute, this schism in the fan community nonetheless cast a shadow over Herbert’s rich literary legacy.
98. Philip K. Dick
Year: 1982
Est. Amount: $5 million*
Philip K. Dick, one of the most influential science fiction writers of the 20th century, died in 1982 with little wealth to his name. However, after his death, his works became increasingly popular, with numerous books being adapted into successful films like Blade Runner and Total Recall.
Philip K. Dick /commons.wikimedia.org
The profits from these adaptations, as well as the sale of his unpublished works, resulted in a posthumous windfall. Dick’s estate, managed by his daughters, sparked controversies and lawsuits over the years, primarily from the author’s former wives, leading to ongoing debates about the rightful beneficiaries of his unexpected literary fortune.
99. Stephen Hawking
Year: 2018
Est. Amount: $20 million*
Stephen Hawking, the renowned physicist and author, passed away in 2018. He left an estate valued at $20 million. Despite suffering from a debilitating condition, Hawking continued his groundbreaking work on black holes and relativity, becoming one of the most recognized scientists globally.
Stephen Hawking /commons.wikimedia.org
His three children inherited his wealth, but this wasn’t without controversy. Hawking’s first wife, Jane, with whom he had a strained relationship, was excluded from the will. This exclusion was viewed by many as the final bitter twist in the long-running feud between Jane and Hawking.
100. Dale Earnhardt Sr.
Year: 2001
Est. Amount: $70 million*
NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt Sr., known as “The Intimidator,” died in a fatal crash during the Daytona 500 in 2001. His death shocked the racing world and left an estate estimated at over $70 million. The inheritance was split primarily among his wife, Teresa, and his four children.
Dale Earnhardt Sr. ©Robert Alexander/Getty Images
But the tranquillity was short-lived when Teresa and Dale Earnhardt Jr., the late driver’s most popular son, clashed over the commercial use of Earnhardt’s name and likeness. This led to Junior’s decision to leave the family racing team, Dale Earnhardt Inc., causing a significant rift within the family.
101. Richard Pryor
Year: 2005
Est. Amount: $40 million*
Stand-up comedian and actor Richard Pryor, known for his incisive social commentary and storytelling, died in 2005, leaving an estate valued at around $40 million. In his will, Pryor named his widow, Jennifer Lee Pryor, as the main beneficiary and the trustee of his estate, stirring up bitter resentment among his children.
Richard Pryor ©Fotos International/Getty Images
Multiple lawsuits were filed, alleging Jennifer manipulated Pryor into cutting his children out of his will and was mismanaging the estate. The legal disputes and family feud played out in public, marring the legacy of one of comedy’s true geniuses.
102. Tony Bennett
Year: 2023
Est. Amount: $200 million*
Tony Bennett, a legendary singer-songwriter, was one of the most well-respected musicians of all time. As a result, he had a net worth of $200 million, and his passing in 2023 at the age of ninety-six opened up the question of who would inherit his fortune.
Tony Bennett ©JP Yim /Getty Images
Bennet had four children, Danny, Joanna, Antonia, and Dae, with his two-ex wives, Sandra Grant and Patricia Beech. At the time of his passing, he also had a partner, Susan Benedetto, with whom he was together for nearly four decades. All of these individuals stand a good chance at inheriting at least some of the fortune Bennett left behind.
103. Steve Jobs
Year: 2011
Est. Amount: $10 billion*
Steve Jobs, the visionary co-founder of Apple Inc., forever changed the tech industry with his revolutionary innovations, such as the iPhone and iPad. When he passed away in 2011, the world mourned the loss of a genius. But behind the scenes, a dramatic inheritance dispute unfolded, captivating public attention.
Steve Jobs ©Photo Oz/Shutterstock.com
With a fortune estimated at $10 billion, his family faced a daunting challenge in dividing his wealth and valuable assets without a clear will. The battles among his loved ones shed light on the often turbulent nature of inheritances, proving that even the most extraordinary legacies can be fraught with complexity and emotion.
104. Howard Hughes
Year: 1976
Est. Amount: $2.5 billion*
Howard Hughes, the larger-than-life American business magnate, aviator, and filmmaker, achieved tremendous success and amassed a net worth of $2.5 billion. After his death in 1976, chaos ensued as numerous individuals claimed to be his heirs or beneficiaries – he had no proper will or estate plan.
Howard Hughes ©Bettmann/Getty Images
With no clear instructions on how to divide his vast fortune, lengthy legal battles ensued, involving distant relatives and business associates. Hughes’ incredible successes were shadowed by his disputes. The lack of a will tarnished the legacy of a man who had made significant contributions to aviation and Hollywood.
105. John D. Rockefeller
Year: 1937
Est. Amount: $1.4 billion*
John D. Rockefeller, the wealthy oil magnate and philanthropist of the Gilded Age, left behind a massive fortune of $1.4 billion upon his death in 1937. But even with his generous spirit, his family couldn’t escape the drama of inheritance disputes.
John D. Rockefeller /commons.wikimedia.org
With numerous heirs clamoring for a piece of the pie, disagreements over the division of assets continued on for years. The legal battles and family feuds ensued public debates about the responsibilities of the super-rich in society. The entire debate and situation made his dispute a huge story as it brought its own set of challenges and complexities.
106. Andrew Getty
Year: 2015
Est. Amount: $2.1 billion*
Andrew Getty’s life was a blend of business, art, and philanthropy, thanks to his prominent Getty family heritage. When he passed away, his substantial $2.1 billion fortune became the center of a heartbreaking inheritance dispute.
Getty /Pinterest
The absence of a clear and updated will caused bitter feelings and confusion among family members, leading to prolonged legal battles over asset division. The proceedings overshadowed the positive impact Andrew had made during his lifetime, which were a result of a lack of proper estate planning and effective communication within richer families.
107. Tom Clancy
Year: 2013
Est. Amount: $300 million*
Tom Clancy, the prolific thriller author, most notably known as the writer of the Rainbow Six, left an enduring literary legacy through his best-selling novels, which inspired movies and video games. Despite his immense financial success, his estate, valued at approximately $300 million, became entangled in inheritance disputes after his passing.
Tom Clancy ©Janet Fries/Getty Images
The distribution of Clancy’s assets and intellectual property rights triggered disagreements among his family members. Ownership and control of his literary works came under scrutiny, leading to courtroom battles and negotiations over the future commercial use of his beloved characters and storylines.
108. Prince Rogers Nelson
Year: 1954
Est. Amount: $2.7 billion*
An inheritance dispute involved the estate of the legendary singer and musician Prince, whose full name was Prince Rogers Nelson. When Prince passed away in April 2016, he left behind an extensive music catalog and an estimated net worth of around $300 million.
Prince Rogers Nelson Nicolas Genin/commons.wikimedia.org
However, Prince did not leave a clear and updated will, which led to inheritance disputes among his siblings and other potential heirs. The lack of a will meant that the distribution of his wealth was not specified. The legal battles over Prince’s estate continued for years, involving multiple claimants and complex copyright issues related to his music rights.
109. Maria Altmann
Year: 2011
Est. Amount: $300 million*
Maria Altmann, the Austrian-American art restitution activist and heiress, became famous for her courageous legal battle to reclaim Gustav Klimt paintings looted from her family during World War II. Her estate, valued at around $300 million, became the subject of inheritance disputes after her passing.
Maria Altmann ©Ann Johansson/Corbis/Getty Images
The issues of the international inheritance laws complicated the distribution of her wealth among heirs and beneficiaries. Despite the challenges, the impact of her case set a significant movement for art restoration which inspired further efforts to recover art stolen during the Holocaust.
110. Christina Onassis
Year: 1988
Est. Amount: $500 million*
Christina Onassis, the daughter of Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis, enjoyed a life of luxury and privilege. Her inheritance, estimated at $500 million after her father’s passing, granted her access to immense wealth.
Christina Onassis ©Michel Dufour/WireImage/Getty Images
However, her life was not without struggles and family conflicts. Her untimely death at just 37 years old sparked disputes over the distribution of her inheritance. The legal battles were centered on the division of her father’s vast international assets and business interests. These disagreements made matters worse within the Onassis family and captured endless media attention.
111. Harry Helmsley
Year: 1997
Est. Amount: $1.7 billion*
Harry Helmsley, the prominent American real estate mogul and hotelier, left behind an impressive empire valued at $1.7 billion upon his death. His passing triggered intense disputes over his will and the intended beneficiaries of his incredible fortune.
Harry Helmsley ©Bachrach/Getty Images
His second wife, Leona Helmsley, became involved in legal battles with other family members over the inheritance, earning her the infamous moniker “Queen of Mean.” The high-profile legal proceedings and family conflicts continued became a high-profile story for the tabloids and showed numerous troubles over the years.
112. Larry Hillblom
Year: 1995
Est. Amount: $600 million*
Larry Hillblom, the billionaire co-founder of DHL Worldwide Express, left behind a huge estate valued at around $600 million after his tragic disappearance in a plane crash in 1995. The absence of a clear will led to intense legal battles over the distribution of his wealth. Claims from people saying themselves to be his biological children resulted in many paternity disputes.
DHL Stefan Kühn/commons.wikimedia.org
The case became a highly publicized and complex affair which involved multiple countries and legal jurisdictions. After many years of proceedings, a settlement was finally reached, but the disputes left a lasting impact on Larry Hillblom’s legacy and the administration of his estate.
113. Leandro Rizzuto
Year: 2017
Est. Amount: $5 billion*
Leandro Rizzuto, the successful co-founder of Conair Corporation, left behind a significant fortune of $5 billion at the time of his death. His estate faced inheritance disputes due to the complications of his business interests and family dynamics.
Leandro Rizzuto @pancan/twitter.com
The inheritance dispute exposed tensions within the Rizzuto family. The distribution of his vast wealth among his children and other family members led to disagreements between each other. Legal challenges over asset division and the control of Conair Corporation were also a major headline during this time.
114. Aristotle Onassis
Year: 1975
Est. Amount: $500 million*
Aristotle Onassis, the Greek shipping tycoon, led a lavish lifestyle and had high-profile relationships, including a marriage to Jacqueline Kennedy, the former First Lady of the United States. When he passed away, he left behind an estate valued at approximately $500 million.
Aristotle Onassis Pieter Jongerhuis/commons.wikimedia.org
After his death, the distribution of his wealth faced legal challenges and disputes. Questions arose about the authenticity of his will, and various people sought a larger share of the inheritance. The highly publicized and contentious legal battles over his estate, along with intense media scrutiny, exposed the issues of the Onassis family, both personally and financially.
115. Daniel K. Ludwig
Year: 1992
Est. Amount: $3.3 billion*
Daniel K. Ludwig, the American shipping magnate and real estate investor, built a vast business empire and amassed an impressive fortune of $3.3 billion. Although, after his passing, his estate encountered legal disputes over the interpretation of his will and the distribution of assets. The business holdings and global investments added further problems to the settlement process.
Daniel K. Ludwig /Wikipedia.org
These legal battles continued on for several years and spanned multiple jurisdictions, which ultimately showed the public the complicated dealings involved in managing and distributing the wealth of an international business mogul
116. Richard Mellon Scaife
Year: 2014
Est. Amount: $1.4 billion*
Richard Mellon Scaife, the American billionaire and influential conservative figure, inherited a significant fortune from his family’s banking and oil interests, amounting to approximately $1.4 billion.His estate faced legal disputes and challenges concerning his philanthropic commitments and political contributions, after his death.
Richard Mellon Scaife post-gazette/Pinterest
The allocation of funds to various organizations in his will became a point of the problems, leading to disagreements among beneficiaries and potential recipients. The inheritance disputes shed light on the delicate balance between personal beliefs and financial legacies, which caused a darker light to shine on Richard’s legacy.
117. Jacqueline Mars
Year: 1939
Est. Amount: $28.9 billion*
Jacqueline Mars, the American heiress from the Mars candy company family, inherited an astonishing fortune estimated at $28.9 billion. However, the distribution of her vast wealth among heirs and charitable causes triggered significant inheritance disputes.
Mars /commons.wikimedia.org
The immense size of the estate and divergent opinions among beneficiaries led to legal battles over asset division and the execution of her philanthropic vision. The case was bigger than ever when it came to the challenges of balancing the desires of multiple stakeholders. Jacqueline, who is still alive, does not actively manage the company but still remains a co-owner with her brother John Mars.
118. Marvin Davis
Year: 2004
Est. Amount: $5.8 billion*
Marvin Davis, the American oil magnate and entertainment industry investor, amassed a vast fortune of $5.8 billion through successful oil ventures and ownership of major film studios. His passing brought forward many inheritance disputes as the distribution of his wealth among family members and business associates came under scrutiny.
Marvin Davis ©Carl Iwasaki/Getty Images
Legal contests over his will and the management of his diverse business interests led to long proceedings. The high-profile nature of these disputes drew public attention and showed the darker side of these rich and elite proceedings.
119. Kirk Kerkorian
Year: 2015
Est. Amount: $4.2 billion*
Kirk Kerkorian, the casino and hotel industry tycoon, was one of the wealthiest individuals globally, worth a staggering $4.2 billion at the time of his death. But after he passed away, his estate faced disputes over distributing his wealth among family and carrying out his charitable goals.
Kirk Kerkorian ©John Sciulli/WireImage/Getty Images
Legal battles revolved around his complex business holdings and charitable foundations, showing the need for comprehensive estate planning to ensure a smooth transfer of assets and preserve his philanthropic legacy. Sometimes, even the richest and most successful individuals need proper estate planning to protect their family’s interests and ensure their charitable vision endures beyond their lifetime.
120. Melvin Dummar
Year: 2018
Est. Amount: $1 billion*
Melvin Dummar, a humble gas station owner, made headlines when he asserted that he was mentioned in the will of the reclusive billionaire, Howard Hughes. The encounter led to a handwritten will that included him as a beneficiary of a share of Hughes’ vast fortune. However, the authenticity of this “Mormon Will” was hotly debated, with numerous individuals challenging Dummar’s claim and questioning the legitimacy of his encounter with Hughes.
Melvin Dummar ©Bettmann/Getty Images
Legal battles became the norm as the validity of the will was scrutinized in courtrooms, attracting national attention and media frenzy. Despite Dummar’s unwavering persistence, the court ultimately ruled that the “Mormon Will” was a forgery, and he was denied any part of the Hughes estate.
121. Steve Bing
Year: 2020
Est. Amount: $590 million*
Steve Bing, the American businessman, film producer, and philanthropist, left behind an estimated net worth of $590 million upon his untimely death. His passing sparked inheritance disputes among his family members and beneficiaries. The lack of a clear and updated will resulted in disagreements over the division of his wealth, including his real estate holdings and philanthropic endeavors.
Steve Bing @hollywoodreporter/Instagram
The battles brought attention to the significance of his estate planning and the potential complications that can arise without a well-documented will. Transparent and thorough estate plans could have provided clarity and peace of mind, protecting both the family’s interests and the philanthropic causes.
122. J. Paul Getty II
Year: 2003
Est. Amount: $2 billion*
Paul Getty II, the British philanthropist and son of oil tycoon J. Paul Getty, inherited a substantial fortune from his father’s vast oil holdings. After his passing, his estate encountered inheritance disputes over the distribution of his wealth among his children and other beneficiaries.
Paul Getty II /commons.wikimedia.org
The issues of the Getty family’s financial interests and international assets added more challenges to settling the estate. The legal proceedings brought attention to the matters of managing and dividing immense wealth within a prominent and elite family. Proper estate plans could have helped calm down potential conflicts and ensure a smooth transition of assets to the intended beneficiaries which could have protected the family’s legacy.
123. Gail Posner
Year: 2010
Est. Amount: $4.5 billion*
Gail Posner, the American heiress and daughter of corporate raider Victor Posner, lived a lavish lifestyle, inheriting a fortune valued at around $4.5 billion. After her death, her estate faced heated inheritance disputes, particularly involving her son and household staff.
Gail Posner @petsintouch/twitter.com
The scrutiny fell on her will, which included substantial divisions left to her pet dogs and staff members, which were outrageously contested by some family members and beneficiaries. The media highlighted the issues that followed and shed light on the dealings between the families and the decisions made by the late heiress.
124. Casey Johnson
Year: 2010
Est. Amount: $100 million*
Casey Johnson, lived a high-profile lifestyle but tragically passed away at a young age, leaving behind an estate estimated at $100 million.
Casey Johnson ©Tinseltown/Shutterstock.com
Her death triggered inheritance disputes over the distribution of her wealth. The complexities of her family relationships and the uncertainty surrounding her estate planning led to disagreements among family members and potential beneficiaries. Because of her early age of passing at only 30 years old, Casey was unable to maintain a smooth level of financial transfers as she had not left behind clear documentation, which led to more disagreements.
125. Richard DeVos
Year: 2018
Est. Amount: $5.4 billion*
Richard DeVos, the American billionaire entrepreneur and co-founder of Amway Corporation, left behind an impressive net worth of $5.4 billion upon his passing. His estate faced inheritance disputes over the distribution of his vast wealth among heirs and beneficiaries.
Richard DeVos @celebritynetworth/twitter.com
To make matters worse, his philanthropic commitments and business interests added further challenges to settling the estate. The legal problems made a dent in his family and other beneficiaries. If planned well, the distribution would have helped to protect family harmony and ensure that his philanthropic commitments would continue to have a positive impact.
126. Burt Reynolds
Year: 2018
Est. Amount: $5 million*
Burt Reynolds, the beloved American actor, and Hollywood icon, had a net worth of $5 million at the time of his death. His passing triggered disputes over the distribution of his modest wealth among family members and potential beneficiaries.
Burt Reynolds Alan Light (alan.light)/commons.wikimedia.org
The absence of a clear and updated will led to legal challenges and disagreements within the family. A well-prepared estate plan can help prevent conflicts and ensure that one’s wishes are carried out, providing peace of mind for both the individual and their loved ones, which instead causes problems for the people involved.
127. Howard Robard Hughes Jr.
Year: 1976
Est. Amount: $2.5 billion*
Howard Robard Hughes Jr., the eccentric American business magnate, aviator, and filmmaker, achieved substantial wealth through ventures in aviation and filmmaking. His net worth was estimated at $2.5 billion at the time of his death.
Howard R. Hughes Jr. /commons.wikimedia.org
However, after Hughes passed away, his estate encountered intricate inheritance disputes. His habit of staying away from the spotlight hid his lifestyle and various relationships. Many people came forward claiming to be his heirs. Prolonged legal battles over the distribution of his wealth became the prime headline which caused the people involved to focus on the difficulties of managing the estate of such a high-profile figure.
128. Jerry Garcia
Year: 1995
Est. Amount: $28 million*
Jerry Garcia was a legendary American musician and the frontman of the iconic rock band Grateful Dead. He was a pivotal figure in the counterculture movement of the 1960s and played a significant role in shaping the psychedelic rock genre. Garcia’s musical legacy continues to inspire generations of fans.
Jerry Garcia ©Northfoto/Shutterstock.com
After Jerry Garcia’s passing in 1995, his estate faced inheritance disputes that echoed the complex nature of his artistic journey. The challenges stemmed from the web of ownership and rights related to his music and creative works. Legal battles arose over the control of his image and intellectual property, involving both his family and fellow band members.
129. John Candy
Year: 1994
Est. Amount: $15 million*
John Candy was a beloved Canadian actor and comedian, renowned for his warm-hearted humor and versatile performances in iconic films like Planes, Trains and Automobiles, Uncle Buck, and Spaceballs. His larger-than-life presence and relatable characters endeared him to audiences around the world, making him a cherished figure in the world of comedy.
John Candy ©Vicki L. Miller/Shutterstock.com
Tragically, John Candy’s untimely death in 1994 caused his estate to face inheritance disputes that added a somber note to his legacy. The challenges primarily revolved around the distribution of his modest wealth among family members and potential beneficiaries. The absence of a clear and updated will contributed to legal complexities, leading to disagreements over the division of assets.
130. Jean-Michel Basquiat
Year: 1988
Est. Amount: $10 million*
Jean-Michel Basquiat was a groundbreaking American artist whose graffiti-inspired works transitioned into the realm of fine art. He gained prominence in the 1980s for his unique fusion of street culture, abstract expressionism, and social commentary. His artistic contributions challenged conventional norms.
Jean-Michel Basquiat ©Rose Hartman/Getty Images
Following Jean-Michel Basquiat’s untimely death in 1988, his estate encountered inheritance disputes that added complexity to his artistic legacy. The challenges were rooted in the intricate nature of his artworks, their valuation, and the interpretation of his wishes for their future. Legal battles emerged over the rights to his creations, leading to disagreements among family members, art dealers, and potential beneficiaries.
131. Casey Kasem
Year: 2014
Est. Amount: $80 million*
Casey Kasem was an iconic American radio personality and voice actor, known for his signature role as the host of the popular radio show American Top 40. His warm and friendly voice guided listeners through decades of hit music, making him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
Casey Kasem ©s_bukley/Shutterstock.com
The challenges after his death stemmed from conflicts within his family, particularly between his second wife and his children from a previous marriage. The disputes centered on control over his medical care, end-of-life decisions, and the distribution of his substantial wealth. These legal battles shed light on the complexities of blended families and the need for clear communication.
132. Frank Sinatra Jr.
Year: 2016
Est. Amount: $10 million*
Frank Sinatra Jr. followed in his father’s footsteps, becoming a notable American singer and songwriter in his own right. He inherited not only his father’s musical talent but also his charisma, making a mark with his own performances and recordings.
Frank Sinatra Jr. ©Featureflash Photo Agency/Shutterstock.com
The absence of a clear and updated will after his death contributed to legal complexities, leading to disagreements over the distribution of assets and the management of his estate. These disputes served as a reminder of the importance of comprehensive estate planning, even for individuals with relatively modest fortunes, to ensure a smooth transition of assets and the preservation of one’s legacy.
133. Katharine Hepburn
Year: 2003
Est. Amount: $40 million*
Katharine Hepburn was a legendary American actress known for her exceptional talent, strong-willed characters, and unparalleled contributions to the Golden Age of Hollywood. With a record four Academy Awards for Best Actress, she left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry, setting a standard for both acting prowess and independence.
Katharine Hepburn ©Ernest Bachrach/Getty Images
However, after Katharine Hepburn’s passing in 2003, her estate faced inheritance disputes that added a layer of complexity to her iconic legacy. The challenges involved the distribution of her considerable wealth among family members and potential beneficiaries. Her estate planning choices, coupled with her unique personal life, led to legal battles over her intentions and the rightful division of her assets.
134. Elizabeth Taylor
Year: 2011
Est. Amount: $600 million*
Elizabeth Taylor was a Hollywood icon and one of the most famous actresses of her time. Known for her beauty, talent, and captivating performances, she achieved enduring fame and starred in numerous classic films. Beyond her acting career, she was also recognized for her philanthropic efforts and her captivating personal life, marked by her multiple marriages and friendships with other celebrities.
Elizabeth Taylor ©Featureflash Photo Agency/Shutterstock.com
Her estate faced complex inheritance disputes that brought attention to the tabloids and gossip trains after her passing. The issues were primarily related to the division of her wealth among family members, beneficiaries, and charitable causes. The complexities of her relationships, multiple marriages, and the diverse interests she pursued during her lifetime led to legal battles over her estate’s distribution.
135. Anthony Bourdain
Year: 2018
Est. Amount: $16 million*
Anthony Bourdain, a beloved chef, author, and television personality, left an indelible mark on the culinary world and beyond. Known for his exploration of food, culture, and human connections, he inspired countless individuals with his storytelling and adventurous spirit.
Anthony Bourdain ©Emma McIntyre/Getty Images
Tragically, Anthony Bourdain’s passing in 2018 led to inheritance disputes that shed light on the complexities of managing his estate. The legal battles centered around the distribution of his assets among family members, including his estranged spouse and daughter. The case highlighted the emotional and financial intricacies that can arise when navigating the inheritance of a well-known figure, especially in cases where personal relationships are complicated.
136. Chadwick Boseman
Year: 2020
Est. Amount: $12 million*
Chadwick Boseman, a talented actor and cultural icon, captured hearts worldwide with his portrayal of iconic characters, most notably as the Black Panther in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. His remarkable performances and advocacy for diversity in film made a profound impact on both the entertainment industry and society at large.
Chadwick Boseman ©Featureflash Photo Agency/Shutterstock.com
Tragically, Chadwick Boseman’s untimely death in 2020 led to legal battles that revolved around the distribution of his estate among family members, with questions arising about the clarity of his estate planning and the intended beneficiaries. His passing brought attention to the importance of comprehensive estate plans, especially for individuals who leave behind a significant cultural and financial legacy.
137. Sam Simon
Year: 2015
Est. Amount: $125 million*
Sam Simon was a talented American television producer, writer, and director, best known for co-creating the iconic animated TV series The Simpsons. His creative contributions left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment, and his philanthropic endeavors demonstrated his commitment to animal welfare and charitable causes.
Sam Simon ©Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images
The problems centered around the distribution of his wealth among family members, friends, and charitable organizations. Simon’s legacy as a creative force and compassionate philanthropist continues to inspire, underscoring the significance of effective estate management for those seeking to leave a lasting impact.
138. Joan Kennedy
Year: 2009
Est. Amount: $50 million*
Joan Kennedy was an American socialite and philanthropist, best known as the first wife of Senator Ted Kennedy. Her involvement in various charitable activities and her contributions to the arts and healthcare showcased her commitment to making a positive impact on society.
Joan Kennedy ©Hans Peters / Anefo/Wikimedia
Following her passing in 2009, her estate encountered inheritance disputes that illuminated the challenges of dividing wealth among family members and beneficiaries. The complexities of family dynamics, combined with her extensive philanthropic interests, led to legal battles over the distribution of her estate. Joan Kennedy’s legacy of philanthropy and advocacy continues to serve as a reminder of the lasting impact individuals can have on their communities.
139. Zsa Zsa Gabor
Year: 2016
Est. Amount: $30 million*
Zsa Zsa Gabor was a Hungarian-American actress and socialite, known for her glamorous persona and numerous marriages to wealthy and prominent men. Her celebrity status and larger-than-life personality made her a cultural icon of her time.
Zsa Zsa Gabor ©Vicki L. Miller/Shutterstock.com
Her estate faced inheritance disputes that underscored the issues of managing a complex legacy. The legal battles revolved around the division of her substantial wealth among her ninth husband, Frederic Prinz von Anhalt, and other potential beneficiaries. Zsa Zsa Gabor’s life and the subsequent disputes surrounding her estate serve as a reminder of the complexities that can arise when dealing with high-profile individuals and their financial affairs.
140. George Hearst Jr.
Year: 2006
Est. Amount: $100 million*
George Hearst Jr. was an American businessman and philanthropist, known for his family’s legacy in media and mining industries. As the grandson of William Randolph Hearst, he inherited a substantial fortune and carried on his family’s tradition of entrepreneurship and civic engagement.
George Hearst Jr. @Google/Pinterest
Following his passing in 2006, the legal battles centered on the division of his estate among family members and beneficiaries, highlighting the complexities that can arise when multiple parties have legitimate claims to a substantial fortune. George Hearst Jr.’s contributions to business and philanthropy, as well as the troubles surrounding his estate, serve as a reminder of the considerations and preparations necessary when managing substantial legacies.
141. Frances Bean Cobain
Year: 2014
Est. Amount: $100 million*
Frances Bean Cobain, the daughter of rock legends Kurt Cobain and Courtney Love, inherited a significant fortune from her iconic parents. Beyond her family’s musical legacy, Frances Bean Cobain has carved her own path as a visual artist and public figure.
Frances Bean Cobain ©DFree/Shutterstock.com
After Frances Bean Cobain’s father passed away in 1994, her mother Courtney Love was entrusted with managing her inheritance until Frances turned 18. Following her 18th birthday in 2010, Frances Bean Cobain gained control of her trust fund, estimated to be worth $100 million. Although there haven’t been widely reported inheritance disputes, the handling of her wealth and financial matters has been under scrutiny due to her parents’ tumultuous history.
142. Robin Leach
Year: 2015
Est. Amount: $15 million*
Robin Leach was a British-American entertainment journalist and television host, best known for his role as the host of the TV show Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous. He gained fame for providing audiences with glimpses into the opulent lives of celebrities and the wealthy.
Robin Leach ©Kathy Hutchins/Shutterstock.com
While the amount of his estate was comparatively smaller, the disputes showed the potential complexities and disagreements that can arise even in cases involving more modest inheritances. Robin Leach’s legacy of showcasing luxury lifestyles was juxtaposed with the practical considerations of managing his own estate.
143. Paul Newman
Year: 2008
Est. Amount: $500 million*
Paul Newman was an acclaimed American actor, director, and philanthropist, known for his legendary film career and his commitment to charitable endeavors. Beyond his on-screen achievements, Newman was also a co-founder of Newman’s Own, a food company that donated its profits to various charitable causes.
Paul Newman ©Vicki L. Miller/Shutterstock.com
Newman’s commitment to philanthropy was evident in his decision to leave the profits from his food company to charity, but the issues arose in determining the appropriate allocation of funds among different beneficiaries. Paul Newman’s life and the subsequent disputes surrounding his estate serve as a reminder of the complexities of balancing personal, family, and philanthropic considerations in estate planning.
144. Andy Warhol
Year: 1987
Est. Amount: $100 million*
Andy Warhol was an iconic American artist, known for his groundbreaking contributions to the pop art movement. His distinctive style and exploration of consumer culture, celebrity, and artistic expression left an indelible mark on the art world.
Andy Warhol ©Jack Mitchell/Getty Images
The legal battles revolved around the valuation of his extensive art collection, copyrights, and the distribution of his wealth among beneficiaries and the Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts. The disputes highlighted the challenges of preserving an artist’s legacy, ensuring fair compensation for artistic contributions, and navigating the intricate legal and financial considerations related to intellectual property.
145. Sam Walton
Year: 1992
Est. Amount: $40 billion*
Sam Walton was the American entrepreneur and founder of Walmart, the multinational retail corporation that revolutionized the retail industry with its innovative business model and widespread presence.
Sam Walton @campaddict0183/Pinterest
The disputes underscored the tensions that can arise between family members, business associates, and the need to balance financial interests with the continuation of a successful business legacy. Sam Walton’s case serves as a reminder of the intricate financial and organizational considerations involved in the estate planning of prominent entrepreneurs, particularly those who have left a profound impact on their respective industries.
146. Oscar de la Renta
Year: 2014
Est. Amount: $500 million*
Oscar de la Renta was a renowned Dominican-American fashion designer, celebrated for his elegant and luxurious creations that adorned some of the most influential figures in the world. His contributions to the fashion industry left an enduring mark on style and culture.
Oscar de la Renta ©Everett Collection/Shutterstock.com
After Oscar de la Renta’s passing in 2014, his estate faced inheritance disputes that highlighted the complexities of valuing artistic assets and managing the legacy of a fashion icon. The legal battles centered on the division of his substantial wealth among family members, beneficiaries, and charitable organizations. The disputes underscored the problems of balancing personal desires, philanthropic intentions, and the preservation of an artistic legacy.
147. Leona Naess
Year: 2010
Est. Amount: $1 billion*
Leona Naess was a British-American singer-songwriter known for her soulful and introspective music. Her unique voice and poignant lyrics resonated with audiences, contributing to her musical legacy.
Leona Naess ©James Devaney/Getty Images
Following Leona Naess’s passing in 2010, her estate encountered inheritance disputes that shed light on the complexities of managing creative legacies. The issues highlighted the intricacies of balancing personal and artistic intentions with financial considerations, especially when an artist’s work continues to generate revenue posthumously. It was a case where both the creative and financial aspects must be carefully managed to ensure the preservation and continuation of their artistic impact.
148. Maurice R. Greenberg
Year: 2018
Est. Amount: $10 billion*
Maurice R. Greenberg was a prominent American businessman and former CEO of American International Group (AIG), a multinational insurance corporation. His influential role in the financial industry and business acumen earned him a notable reputation.
Maurice R. Greenberg ©China News Service/Wikimedia
After Maurice R. Greenberg’s passing in 2018, his estate faced high-stakes inheritance disputes that underscored the intricacies of managing substantial wealth and complex business interests. The issues revolved around the distribution of his significant assets among family members, beneficiaries, and potential claimants, as well as the intricate financial structures associated with his business empire.
149. Johnny Ramone
Year: 2004
Est. Amount: $50 million*
Johnny Ramone, the legendary guitarist and co-founder of the influential punk rock band The Ramones, left an indelible mark on the music industry with his energetic performances and distinctive sound.
Johnny Ramone ©Bruce Alan Bennett/Shutterstock.com
His death encountered inheritance disputes that offered insights into the complexities of preserving a rock ‘n’ roll legacy. They were centered on the distribution of his substantial wealth among family members and beneficiaries, while also addressing the reservations of managing intellectual property rights associated with the band’s iconic music and brand. The disputes highlighted the tension between personal legacies, artistic contributions, and the commercial aspects of music in the modern era.
150. Gloria Vanderbilt
Year: 2019
Est. Amount: $200 million*
Gloria Vanderbilt, a socialite, artist, and fashion icon, made her mark on American culture through her artistic endeavors and high-profile relationships. As a member of the Vanderbilt family, she carried a legacy of wealth and influence.
Gloria Vanderbilt ©Archive Photos/Getty Images
The legal battles centered on the distribution of her substantial wealth among family members and beneficiaries, while also addressing the intricate dynamics of a prominent family’s financial and personal history. The disputes highlighted the struggles of balancing personal desires, family dynamics, and the preservation of artistic and cultural contributions within a historical context.
151. Hugh Hefner
Year: 2017
Est. Amount: $500 million*
Hugh Hefner, the iconic founder of Playboy magazine, was a cultural phenomenon known for his lifestyle and impact on popular culture. His publication revolutionized attitudes towards sexuality and reshaped the media landscape.
Hugh Hefner ©Tinseltown/Shutterstock.com
The legal battles focused on the distribution of his considerable wealth among family members, beneficiaries, and the organizations associated with Playboy. The disputes highlighted the intricate balance between preserving the legacy of an influential cultural figure and the commercial interests tied to his brand. It showed the things involved in maintaining the integrity of a multi-dimensional legacy while navigating the financial and emotional considerations of both heirs and business entities.
152. Mackenzie Phillips
Year: 2020
Est. Amount: $10 million*
Mackenzie Phillips, an actress known for her roles in television and film, faced a tumultuous journey in the public eye, marked by personal struggles and artistic accomplishments. The disputes revolved around the distribution of her modest wealth among family members and beneficiaries, while also addressing the potential emotional and financial complexities of her life story.
Mackenzie Phillips ©Kathy Hutchins/Shutterstock.com
They also underscored the delicate balance between honoring an individual’s artistic contributions and navigating the personal aspects of their legacy. Her case highlighted the importance of clear estate planning to ensure a smooth transition of assets and the preservation of a multifaceted legacy.
153. Burt Lancaster
Year: 1994
Est. Amount: $9 million*
In 1994, the acclaimed actor Burt Lancaster, known for his commanding performances in films like “From Here to Eternity,” left behind an estate estimated at $9 million. However, the distribution of his wealth wasn’t without its complexities. Lancaster, who had been married three times and had five children, faced posthumous legal challenges.
Burt Lancaster @turnerclassicmovies/Pinterest.com
His will was contested, with disputes arising over the division of his assets among his heirs. This legal tussle over Lancaster’s estate underscores the importance of clear estate planning, especially in the case of high-profile individuals with substantial assets and complicated personal histories.
154. Desi Arnaz
Year: 1986
Est. Amount: $60 million*
Desi Arnaz, the Cuban-American musician, actor, and television producer best known for “I Love Lucy,” left behind an estate worth an estimated $60 million when he passed away in 1986. The handling of his estate was marked by relative smoothness, avoiding the public disputes common with celebrity estates. Arnaz’s wealth was primarily attributed to his success in television, both in front of and behind the camera.
Desi Arnaz @moviestarnews/Pinterest.com
His estate was divided among his family, including his children Lucie Arnaz and Desi Arnaz Jr., who both followed in their parents’ entertainment footsteps. The efficient management of Arnaz’s estate stands out in a field often fraught with legal battles and family disputes.
155. Bob Marley
Year: 1981
Est. Amount: $30 million*
Bob Marley, the iconic Jamaican singer-songwriter and a global symbol of reggae music, left an estate estimated at $30 million when he died in 1981. Marley’s untimely death at age 36 came without a will, leading to one of the most protracted and complicated inheritance battles in music history.
Bob Marley @kaatcreative/Pinterest.com
This lack of a will resulted in legal disputes among his many children, wife, and other family members. The management of his intellectual property rights, including his music and image, became a contentious issue. Marley’s estate case highlights the complexities and importance of estate planning, especially for artists with significant cultural and economic impact.
156. Lucille Ball
Year: 1989
Est. Amount: $40 million*
Lucille Ball, beloved for her iconic role in “I Love Lucy,” left behind an estate valued at approximately $40 million when she passed away in 1989. Her estate included earnings from her successful career in television, both as a groundbreaking actress and a pioneering studio head with Desilu Productions. The distribution of her wealth was a well-planned affair, largely attributed to her clear and concise will.
Lucille Ball @fanpop/Pinterest.com
Lucille Ball’s estate was divided among her two children, Lucie Arnaz and Desi Arnaz Jr., and her second husband, Gary Morton. Her estate management serves as an example of effective legacy planning, ensuring her wealth supported her family and honored her remarkable career in entertainment.
157. Babe Ruth
Year: 1948
Est. Amount: $9 million*
Babe Ruth, the legendary baseball player, had an estate valued at around $9 million (adjusted for inflation) when he died in 1948. Ruth’s estate primarily comprised his earnings from his illustrious baseball career and various endorsements. However, the actual value at the time of his passing was much less, reflecting the economic standards of the era.
Babe Ruth @qualita80/Pinterest.com
The distribution of his estate was relatively straightforward, with his wealth going to his wife, Claire Merritt Ruth, and his adopted daughter, Dorothy. Ruth’s estate is a glimpse into the financial landscape of early 20th-century sports figures, a far cry from the multimillion-dollar contracts and endorsements seen in modern times.
158. Agatha Christie
Year: 1976
Est. Amount: $135,321*
When Agatha Christie, the renowned mystery novelist, passed away in 1976, her estate was valued at a relatively modest $135,321. Despite her immense success and the enduring popularity of her novels, Christie’s wealth at the time of her death was not as substantial as one might expect from such a prolific author.
Agatha Christie ©CONTRIBUTOR/Getty Images
Her estate was meticulously distributed according to her will, with specific bequests to family members and friends. The legacy of Agatha Christie is predominantly literary rather than financial, with her vast collection of works continuing to captivate readers and adapt into various media forms long after her death.
159. Groucho Marx
Year: 1977
Est. Amount: $2 million*
Groucho Marx, one of the famous Marx Brothers and a star of stage and screen, left behind an estate valued at about $2 million when he died in 1977. Known for his quick wit and distinctive appearance, Marx’s estate comprised earnings from his successful career in entertainment.
Groucho Marx ©Bettmann/Getty Images
The distribution of his wealth was subject to legal disputes, particularly involving his companion Erin Fleming, who was initially in charge of his care and later contested for a significant portion of his estate. These disputes highlighted the complexities and challenges that can arise in managing and distributing the assets of deceased celebrities, especially those who had a significant impact in the public eye.
160. Walt Disney
Year: 1966
Est. Amount: $150 million*
Walt Disney, the pioneer of the American animation industry and the creator of the Disney empire, left behind an estate valued at around $150 million when he passed away in 1966. His legacy extended far beyond this figure, with his wealth being a testament to the vast media and entertainment conglomerate he established.
Walt Disney ©Screen Archives/Getty Images
Disney’s estate was primarily divided among his family, including his wife Lillian and daughters Diane and Sharon. The impact of his inheritance is seen in the continued growth and influence of The Walt Disney Company, a testament to his vision and creativity that reshaped entertainment.
161. Ernest Hemingway
Year: 1961
Est. Amount: $1.4 million*
Ernest Hemingway, one of the most celebrated novelists of the 20th century, left an estate worth approximately $1.4 million when he died in 1961. Hemingway’s wealth was accrued from his successful writing career, including royalties from his novels and earnings from various adaptations of his works.
Ernest Hemingway @Hayd1/Pinterest.com
The management of his estate was relatively straightforward, with his fourth wife Mary Welsh Hemingway inheriting most of his assets. Hemingway’s literary works, however, have far surpassed the monetary value of his estate in cultural significance, continuing to influence and inspire long after his death.
162. Pablo Picasso
Year: 1973
Est. Amount: $200 million*
Pablo Picasso, the revolutionary Spanish painter and sculptor, passed away in 1973, leaving behind an estate valued at an estimated $200 million. His inheritance included an extensive and invaluable collection of his own artworks, as well as his personal art collection featuring works by other renowned artists.
Pablo Picasso © Tony Vaccaro/Getty Images
Picasso’s death without a will led to lengthy and complex legal battles among his heirs, including his children and grandchildren. The division of his assets became a protracted affair, entangled with issues of artistic legacy and the immense value of his works, which continue to be celebrated and highly sought after in the art world.
163. Enrico Caruso
Year: 1921
Est. Amount: $20 million*
Enrico Caruso, the famed Italian opera singer, had an estate estimated at $20 million (adjusted for inflation) at the time of his death in 1921. This considerable sum reflected his extraordinary success and popularity as one of the greatest tenors of his era.
Enrico Caruso Bettmann
His wealth, largely accrued from his performances and recordings, was distributed among his family, including his wife and children. Caruso’s legacy is not only marked by his financial success but also by his enduring impact on the world of opera and the arts, with his recordings continuing to be treasured by music lovers worldwide.
164. Laurence Olivier
Year: 1989
Est. Amount: Unknown
Laurence Olivier, a towering figure in the British theatre and film industry, passed away in 1989. While the exact value of his estate at the time of his death is unknown, Olivier’s wealth was accrued from a distinguished career spanning several decades. He was not only a celebrated actor but also a director and producer.
Laurence Olivier ©Hulton Deutsch/Getty Images
Olivier’s legacy is more cultural than financial, marked by his significant contributions to the performing arts and his influence on generations of actors and theatre enthusiasts. His estate, though not publicly disclosed in financial terms, reflects the esteem and reverence he garnered throughout his illustrious career.
165. Salvador Dali
Year: 1989
Est. Amount: $136 million*
Salvador Dali, the surreal Spanish painter, left behind an estate valued at approximately $136 million when he died in 1989. Dali was known not only for his distinctive and imaginative art but also for his eccentric lifestyle and public persona. His estate included an extensive portfolio of artworks, rights to his images, and assets from his diverse ventures in the art world.
Salvador Dali @acontinuouslean/Pinterest.com
The management of his estate was as complex and unconventional as the artist himself, involving various legal proceedings and the establishment of the Gala-Salvador Dali Foundation to preserve and promote his artistic legacy. Dali’s wealth and artistic influence remain significant in the art world.
166. Cary Grant
Year: 1986
Est. Amount: $60 million*
Cary Grant, one of Hollywood’s definitive leading men, left an estate valued at about $60 million at the time of his death in 1986. This substantial sum was the culmination of his successful career in the film industry, spanning over three decades. Grant was known for his roles in classics such as “North by Northwest” and “To Catch a Thief.”
Cary Grant @lex_deco/Pinterest.com
His estate was efficiently managed and divided among his family, including his fifth wife Barbara Harris and his daughter Jennifer Grant. The smooth handling of his estate reflects the meticulous and private nature of a man who was not just a film icon but also a shrewd businessman.
167. Albert Einstein
Year: 1955
Est. Amount: 18 million*
Albert Einstein, the world-renowned theoretical physicist, had an estate worth an estimated $18 million at the time of his death in 1955. This amount primarily represented the value of his intellectual property, including the rights to his scientific papers and books.
Albert Einstein @glubbs/Pinterest.com
Einstein’s will detailed the distribution of his assets, including donations to universities and a trust fund for his family. The income from the use of his image and name has continued to grow over the years, managed by the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, to which Einstein left his personal and scientific papers.
168. Grace Kelly
Year: 1982
Est. Amount: $10,000*
Grace Kelly, the American actress who became Princess of Monaco, left a surprisingly modest estate of $10,000 at her passing in 1982. This amount was a stark contrast to her earlier financial sacrifices, including paying a $2 million dowry (equivalent to about $20 million today) to the House of Grimaldi for her marriage to Prince Rainier.
Grace Kelly @closerfr/Pinterest.com
Kelly combined her acting earnings with her family inheritance to meet this requirement. By the time of her stroke at age 52, her assets included just $10,000 and her grandfather’s rundown cottage in County Mayo, Ireland.
169. Humphrey Bogart
Year: 1957
Est. Amount: $26 million*
Humphrey Bogart, one of the greatest stars of American cinema, left behind an estate worth approximately $26 million at the time of his death in 1957. This considerable sum was a reflection of his successful career, marked by iconic roles in films such as “Casablanca” and “The Maltese Falcon.”
Humphrey Bogart ©John Kobal Foundation/Getty Images
Bogart’s wealth was primarily distributed to his wife, actress Lauren Bacall, and his children. The administration of his estate was handled efficiently, reflecting his well-organized personal affairs. Bogart’s financial legacy is as enduring as his cinematic one, underscoring his status as a Hollywood legend and a savvy investor in his career.
170. Ingmar Bergman
Year: 2007
Est. Amount: Unknown
Ingmar Bergman, the esteemed Swedish film director and writer, passed away in 2007, leaving an estate whose value remains undisclosed. Known for his profound and introspective works like “The Seventh Seal” and “Wild Strawberries,” Bergman’s legacy is primarily artistic, with his films continuing to influence and inspire.
Ingmar Bergman ©Stringer/Getty Images
The details of his estate, including the distribution of his assets, have been kept private, in line with the intensely personal and introspective nature of his life and work. Bergman’s real wealth lies in his contribution to cinema and the indelible mark he left on the world of filmmaking.
171. Marlene Dietrich
Year: 1992
Est. Amount: $350,000*
Marlene Dietrich, the iconic German-American actress and singer, left behind an estate valued at approximately $350,000 when she died in 1992. This relatively modest sum was surprising given her status as a major Hollywood star and international performer. Dietrich, renowned for her roles in films like “The Blue Angel” and “Shanghai Express,” had lived a reclusive life in her later years in Paris.
Marlene Dietrich ©Bettmann/Getty Images
The management of her estate was a low-key affair, reflecting the private life she led away from the glamour and spotlight of her earlier career. Despite the modest size of her estate, Dietrich’s legacy continues to loom large in the annals of film and music history.
172. Jackie Kennedy Onassis
Year: 1994
Est. Amount: $200 million*
Jackie Kennedy Onassis, one of the most iconic figures of the 20th century, left behind an estate estimated at $200 million when she passed away in 1994. As the former First Lady and a global fashion icon, her wealth was accrued not only from her family inheritance but also from her late husband Aristotle Onassis, a shipping magnate.
Jackie Kennedy Onassis ©The Estate of Jacques Lowe/Getty Images
Her estate included valuable real estate, artworks, and jewelry. The distribution of her assets was meticulously planned in her will, with portions designated for her children, grandchildren, and various charitable causes. Jackie O’s estate reflected her sophisticated taste and her lifelong involvement in arts and culture.
173. Ansel Adams
Year: 1984
Est. Amount: Unknown
Ansel Adams, the renowned American photographer known for his stunning black-and-white landscapes, passed away in 1984. The value of his estate was not publicly disclosed, but his true legacy lies in his extraordinary body of work. Adams’ photographs, which often featured the American West and especially Yosemite National Park, have become iconic.
Ansel Adams ©Serge Plantureux/Getty Images
His estate included not just his photographic works but also copyrights and royalties associated with them. These assets have continued to contribute to his family’s wealth and the Ansel Adams Publishing Rights Trust, ensuring the preservation and promotion of his artistic legacy. Adams’ impact on photography and environmentalism remains profound and enduring.
174. Ray Charles
Year: 2004
Est. Amount: $75 million*
Ray Charles, the legendary musician known as “The Genius,” left an estate valued at around $75 million when he passed away in 2004. His wealth was accumulated through his groundbreaking work in music, spanning genres from R&B to country to pop. Charles’s estate was the subject of legal battles among his 12 children and the Ray Charles Foundation.
Ray Charles ©Hulton Archive/Getty Images
The disputes centered around the rights to his music and the management of his assets, underscoring the complexity of his legacy. Despite these challenges, Charles’s musical and cultural impact remains unparalleled, and his estate continues to influence the music industry.
175. Georgia O’Keeffe
Year: 1986
Est. Amount: $65 million*
Georgia O’Keeffe, the renowned American artist famous for her unique paintings of enlarged flowers, New York skyscrapers, and New Mexico landscapes, left behind an estate worth an estimated $65 million. Her wealth was largely attributed to her successful art career and the significant value of her remaining artworks at the time of her death.
Georgia O’Keeffe ©Todd Webb Archivev/Getty Images
O’Keeffe was a pioneer in the American modernism movement, and her estate played a crucial role in cementing her legacy. The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum in Santa Fe was established after her death to preserve and present her art and collections, thereby continuing her influence in the art world.
176. John Wayne
Year: 1979
Est. Amount: $7 million*
John Wayne, the iconic American actor known for his roles in Westerns and war movies, left an estate valued at approximately $7 million at his death in 1979. His wealth came from his successful film career, which spanned over 50 years and included classic films like “True Grit” and “The Searchers.” Wayne’s estate was divided among his seven children and his third wife, Pilar Pallete.
John Wayne ©Art Zelin/Getty Images
The administration of his estate reflected the straightforward and no-nonsense persona he often portrayed on screen. Wayne’s legacy continues through the John Wayne Cancer Foundation, which he inspired, and his enduring status as a symbol of American cinema.
177. Vincent Van Gogh
Year: 1890 (posthumous value of works)
Est. Amount: Inestimable
Vincent Van Gogh, a painter whose work had a heavy, unforgettable influence on 20th-century art, did not leave behind a significant estate in terms of financial value at the time of his death in 1890. However, the posthumous value of his works is inestimable. Van Gogh was not commercially successful during his lifetime, and his paintings, now considered priceless, were largely unknown.
Vincent Van Gogh ©Heritage Images/Getty Images
Today, his works are among the most expensive ever sold at auction. Van Gogh’s legacy is a poignant reminder of the often unrecognized genius of artists during their lifetimes, and his influence continues to be profound and pervasive in the art world.
178. Koo Bon-moo
Year: 2018
Est. Amount: $552 million*
In a groundbreaking challenge to the traditionally patriarchal succession norms of South Korea’s chaebols, the family of LG’s late chairman Koo Bon-moo is embroiled in a significant legal dispute over inheritance. This case involves Koo Bon-moo’s widow, Kim Young-sik, and their daughters, Koo Yeon-kyung and Koo Yeon-soo, who have initiated litigation against the current chairman, Koo Kwang-mo.
Kon Bon-moo @Google/Pinterest
The plaintiffs’ action is grounded in the revelation that Koo Bon-moo did not leave a will, a fact they claim to have discovered only recently, contrary to LG’s position that all family members were previously aware of this and had agreed upon the inheritance settlement.
179. Sylvia Plath
Year: 1963
Est. Amount: $1 million*
The estate of Sylvia Plath, valued at $1 million, was thrust into the limelight after her untimely death in 1963. Plath, who had penned her own legacy with iconic literary works, left behind not just assets but also a complex web of intellectual property rights.
Sylvia Plath ©Bettmann/Getty Images
The control and profits from her publications, including the posthumously published and celebrated “Ariel,” sparked discussions and potential disputes among her heirs and literary executors. The management of Plath’s estate underscores the challenges of handling the intellectual and monetary value of a literary figure’s work, illustrating the intricate balance between preserving a legacy and the legalities of inheritance.
180. Eva Gabor
Year: 1995
Est. Amount: $30 million*
Eva Gabor, renowned for her acting career and glamorous lifestyle, passed away in 1995, leaving an estate estimated at $30 million. Unlike many of her contemporaries, Gabor’s passing did not result in a public inheritance dispute, possibly due to careful estate planning or the private resolution of any potential conflicts.
Eva Gabor ©John Springer Collection/Getty Images
Her estate encapsulates the essence of her life, blending her Hollywood legacy with the elegance and flair that defined her public persona. Gabor’s smooth estate settlement process offers a contrast to the often contentious battles seen in the aftermath of other celebrities’ passings, highlighting the impact of foresight in estate planning.
181. Alexander McQueen
Year: 2010
Est. Amount: $26 million*
The fashion world mourned in 2010 when Alexander McQueen, the revolutionary designer known for his avant-garde and provocative work, passed away, leaving behind an estate valued at $26 million. McQueen’s will revealed generous bequests to his family, charities, and his beloved dogs, showcasing his thoughtful consideration and the diverse interests that influenced his life and work.
Alexander McQueen ©Dave M. Benett /Getty Images
The clear directives in McQueen’s will prevented any public disputes over his estate, underscoring the importance of detailed estate planning. By allocating his wealth to causes and individuals close to his heart, McQueen’s final wishes reflected his complex persona, blending personal passions with his groundbreaking artistic legacy.
182. Pierre Cardin
Year: 2020
Est. Amount: $800 million*
Pierre Cardin, the visionary fashion designer who revolutionized the industry with his futuristic designs and licensing savvy, left the world in December 2020 at the age of 98, after succumbing to Covid-19. Despite an illustrious career that saw the expansion of his brand on a global scale, Cardin approached the subject of his succession with surprising nonchalance.
Pierre Cardin ©catwalker/shutterstock.com
In an interview with Paris Match just months before his passing, he admitted to having made no plans for the future of his empire, stating, “After my death? I don’t think about it. I didn’t organize anything. NOTHING.” This oversight has since plunged his estate, valued at an estimated $800 million, into a complex legal dispute.
183. Gianni Versace
Year: 1997
Est. Amount: $1 billion*
Gianni Versace’s murder in 1997 shocked the world, leaving behind a fashion empire and an estate worth $1 billion. The battle for control of the Versace brand was not only about financial inheritance but also about preserving the visionary designer’s legacy.
Gianni Versace ©Leonardo Cendamo/Getty Images
His sister, Donatella Versace, took the helm of the fashion house, ensuring that Gianni’s artistic vision continued to thrive. This transition highlighted the importance of legacy planning within family-owned businesses, demonstrating how the values and vision of a founder can be perpetuated by those who knew them best.
184. J.R.R. Tolkien
Year: 1973
Est. Amount: $500 million*
When J.R.R. Tolkien, the literary titan behind “The Lord of the Rings,” passed away in 1973, he left behind an estate valued at $500 million, encompassing not just his vast wealth but a treasure trove of unpublished manuscripts and copyrights.
J.R.R. Tolkien ©Haywood Magee/Getty Images
The stewardship of Tolkien’s legacy was entrusted to his son, Christopher, who dedicated his life to editing and publishing his father’s extensive works, thereby expanding the Tolkien universe for fans worldwide. This careful management ensured that Tolkien’s fantasy worlds would enchant generations to come, seamlessly integrating his posthumous publications with his beloved classics.
185. Luciano Pavarotti
Year: 2007
Est. Amount: $275 million*
Luciano Pavarotti, the operatic superstar whose voice captivated millions, died in 2007, leaving an estate worth $275 million. His death sparked a notable inheritance dispute among his heirs, pitting members of his family against each other.
Luciano Pavarotti ©Gianni Ferrari/Getty Images
The resolution of Pavarotti’s estate was a complex process, reflecting the challenges of dividing a substantial legacy that included not just financial assets but also the rights to Pavarotti’s recordings and image. Despite these challenges, Pavarotti’s legacy as one of opera’s greatest tenors remains untarnished, with his recordings continuing to inspire and awe.
186. Ingvar Kamprad
Year: 2018
Est. Amount: $58.7 billion*
Ingvar Kamprad, the Swedish founder of the global furniture giant IKEA, passed away in January 2018 at the age of 91, leaving behind a legacy as one of the world’s most successful entrepreneurs. At the time of his death, Kamprad’s net worth was estimated at around $58.7 billion, placing him among the wealthiest individuals globally.
Ingvar Kamprad ©Chris Jackson /Getty Images
However, the distribution of his vast fortune revealed Kamprad’s unique approach to both business and personal finance. Despite the colossal success of IKEA, Kamprad had structured the company in such a way that a significant portion of its ownership was vested in the Stichting Ingka Foundation, a Netherlands-based entity with charitable objectives primarily focused on architecture and interior design.
187. Dr. Seuss (Theodor Geisel)
Year: 1991
Est. Amount: $75 million*
Dr. Seuss, born Theodor Geisel, left the world in 1991, but his departure did not mark the end of his influence. With an estate valued at $75 million, the control over his beloved characters and stories became a vital concern.
Dr. Seuss (Theodor Geisel) ©Al Ravenna/Wikimedia Commons
The Dr. Seuss Foundation, which manages his estate, has been instrumental in preserving his legacy, ensuring that his unique blend of humor, creativity, and moral lessons remains accessible to future generations. However, some of his works have been criticized and considered as controversial to the public which have caused disputes to occur in the literature world.
188. Nelson Mandela
Year: 2013
Est. Amount: $3.5 million*
When Nelson Mandela, the revered former South African President, passed away at 95 in 2013, his estimated £2.5m estate became the center of familial discord. Notably absent in his will was provision for his ex-wife, Winnie Mandela, who subsequently demanded ownership of Mandela’s ancestral home in Qunu.
Nelson Mandela ©Alessia Pierdomenico/shutterstock.com
The familial tensions were already evident while Mandela was hospitalized, with a legal battle erupting over the reburial of his children’s bodies—a case that symbolized deeper rifts within the Mandela family over control and legacy.
189. BB King
Year: 2015
Est. Amount: $10 million*
BB King’s estate, valued at millions, was contested even before his death in May 2015. Naming his long-time manager, Laverne Toney, as the executor and having control over his affairs did not sit well with three of his 11 children.
BB King ©Frederick M. Brown/shutterstock.com
They accused Toney of financial mismanagement and neglect towards King, seeking to take over as executors. Despite their claims of over $1 million unaccounted for, a Las Vegas judge found no evidence of misconduct, leaving the management of King’s estate under Toney’s control.
190. Martin Luther King Jr
Year: 1968
Est. Amount: $32 million*
The legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., marked by non-violent advocacy for civil rights, faced internal strife when, in 2008, two of his children sued their brother, Dexter, the estate’s executor. Accusations of misappropriating funds and a lack of transparency regarding the estate’s financial dealings led to a deeply personal legal battle.
Martin Luther King Jr ©Bettmann/Getty Images
Dexter’s unilateral decision in 2009 to broker a film deal about their father’s life further fueled the dispute, highlighting the complexities of managing a significant historical legacy within a divided family.
191. Robert Kardashian
Year: 2003
Est. Amount: $30 million*
Robert Kardashian, the attorney famed for his part in O.J. Simpson’s defense team and father to a brood of media personalities, passed away in 2003 at the age of 59, after a short battle with esophageal cancer. Despite his legal expertise, Kardashian left behind a handwritten, or “holographic,” will, leading to a contentious dispute among his heirs.
Robert Kardashian ©Ted Soqui/Getty Images
His children, Kourtney, Kim, Khloe, and Rob, raised concerns about the will’s authenticity, prompting a request for handwriting analysis. Disputes extended beyond the will, involving Kardashian’s personal effects such as his car, desk, family photos, and even a cherished stuffed animal from his childhood.
192. Sonny Bono
Year: 1998
Est. Amount: $15 million*
Sonny Bono, the multifaceted entertainer turned politician, met an untimely death in a skiing accident in 1998 without a will, sparking a complex legal battle over his estate. The situation was further complicated by the emergence of a child he had fathered out of wedlock, alongside claims from his ex-wife, Cher, adding layers to the dispute over his assets.
Sonny Bono ©Joop van Bilsen / Anefo /Wikimedia Commons
Bono’s case became a cautionary tale about the perils of procrastination in estate planning, particularly for individuals with intricate personal and financial lives. His estate’s issues underscored the importance of having a will, especially when navigating complex family dynamics.
193. Stieg Larsson
Year: 2004
Est. Amount: $50 million*
Stieg Larsson, the acclaimed Swedish author behind the global bestseller “The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo,” died of a heart attack in 2004 without a will, leaving his estate to be automatically divided between his closest living relatives, his father and brother.
Stieg Larsson ©Sophie Bassouls /Getty Images
This arrangement notably excluded Eva Gabrielsson, Larsson’s partner of 32 years, highlighting the vulnerabilities partners may face under inheritance laws that do not recognize cohabitation. Larsson’s oversight not only deprived Gabrielsson of a share in the estate but also sparked a debate on the rights of lifelong partners and the necessity of formalizing arrangements through wills to protect the interests of all parties involved.
194. Warren Burger
Year: 1995
Est. Amount: $1.8 million*
Warren Burger, a former Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court, penned his own will with a mere 176 words, inadvertently setting the stage for over $450,000 in estate taxes and court fees that could have been minimized with more detailed planning. Burger’s attempt to simplify his estate planning backfired, demonstrating that expertise in one legal area does not necessarily translate to another.
Warren Burger ©Evening Standard/Getty Images
His heirs paid a steep price for the brevity of his will, which lacked the detailed provisions necessary to shield the estate from excessive taxation. This situation serves as a powerful reminder of the value of specialized legal advice in estate planning to prevent unintended financial burdens on one’s heirs.
195. Florence “FloJo” Griffith Joyner
Year: 1998
Est. Amount: $5 million*
Florence Griffith Joyner, celebrated as the fastest woman of all time, left a will that, due to its undisclosed location, spurred legal disputes between her husband, Al Joyner, and her mother. The will, never filed within the required 30-day period following her death in 1998, led to a protracted court battle, eventually resulting in the administration of her estate being handed over to a third party.
Florence “FloJo” Griffith Joyner ©Courtesy Ronald Reagan Library/Wikimedia Commons
This scenario underscores the critical importance of not only having a will but also ensuring its accessibility to family members. Griffith Joyner’s oversight resulted in a public and painful dispute among her loved ones.
196. Etta James
Year: 2012
Est. Amount: $1 million*
The legendary blues singer Etta James’s final years were marked by a bitter family feud over her $1 million estate, spotlighting the crucial role of advanced health directives and power of attorney. Before her death in 2012, her son and husband clashed over the management of her finances and medical care, questioning her mental competency to sign a power of attorney.
Etta James ©Afro Newspaper/Gado/Getty Images
This dispute not only strained familial relationships but also led to a legal battle that could have been avoided with clearer planning and communication regarding her wishes. James’s situation is a poignant reminder of the importance of establishing comprehensive estate plans that include health care directives.
197. Charles Dickens
Year: 1870
Est. Amount: $10 million*
When the illustrious author Charles Dickens died in 1870, he left behind a contested will that sparked a legal battle between his estranged wife, Catherine, and the beneficiaries he named. Despite providing for his children and mistress, Dickens’s will allocated a significantly smaller annual income to Catherine than she had received during their separation.
Charles Dickens ©Rischgitz/Getty Images
Her legal challenge to the will underscored the complexities of 19th-century estate laws and the personal animosities that can influence the distribution of assets. The dispute over Dickens’s estate serves as an early example of the complications that can arise in the absence of clear and fair estate planning, especially in cases involving significant assets and complex family dynamics.
198. Mickey Rooney
Year: 2014
Est. Amount: $18,000*
Mickey Rooney’s death in 2014, at the age of 93, was overshadowed by allegations of elder abuse and financial mismanagement, culminating in a highly contested will that left his modest $18,000 estate to a stepson and his wife, to the exclusion of Rooney’s eight children and estranged wife.
Mickey Rooney ©Studio publicity still – Autograph Magazine/Wikimedia Commons
The subsequent legal disputes highlighted the vulnerabilities of aging celebrities to financial exploitation and the importance of vigilant estate planning. Rooney’s final will, drafted weeks before his death, ignited a family feud that underscored the broader issues of elder care, the responsibilities of caregivers, and the need for clear, well-documented estate plans to protect individuals’ legacies and provide for their heirs.
199. Charles Manson
Year: 2017
Est. Amount: $1 million*
The death of Charles Manson in 2017 unleashed a complex battle over his estate, estimated to be worth over $1 million, primarily due to the potential value of his music rights and memorabilia.
Charles Manson ©Bettmann/Getty Images
With multiple parties, including alleged relatives and pen pals, claiming inheritance rights, Manson’s legacy became a legal quagmire, reflecting the morbid fascination with his life and crimes. The ongoing litigation over Manson’s estate highlights the unique challenges of managing the assets of individuals with notorious backgrounds and the intricate legal battles that can ensue when clear directives are not established before death.
200. Caroline Aherne
Year: 2016
Est. Amount: $658,000*
The passing of Caroline Aherne in 2016 at just 52, after a valiant battle with cancer, brought to light the complexities surrounding the inheritance of celebrities who die intestate, or without a will. The beloved British comedian and actress left behind an estate valued at over £500,000, which, due to the lack of a will, defaulted to her mother as the next of kin.
Caroline Aherne ©Rune Hellestad – Corbis /Wikimedia Commons
This situation resulted in an unexpected Inheritance Tax bill, highlighting the critical importance of estate planning, regardless of one’s health or age. Aherne’s case serves as a poignant reminder of the emotional and financial turmoil that can arise from not formalizing one’s wishes.
201. Richard Burton
Year: 1984
Est. Amount: $50 million*
Welsh actor Richard Burton, who died in 1984, left behind a will that seemingly addressed the distribution of his assets. However, the complexities of Burton’s tax obligations, due to his international residences and UK domicile status, brought his estate under scrutiny by HMRC for Inheritance Tax.
Richard Burton ©John Springer Collection/Getty Images
Despite his efforts to mitigate tax liabilities by living outside the UK, Burton’s estate encountered legal challenges that underscore the importance of understanding the domicile concept and its impact on estate taxation. This case illustrates the intricate relationship between domicile status, tax obligations, and estate planning, offering valuable lessons on the necessity of comprehensive legal advice.
202. David Bowie
Year: 2016
Est. Amount: $100 million*
David Bowie’s estate, estimated at around $100 million at the time of his death in 2016, exemplifies the effectiveness of thoughtful estate planning. Bowie’s will, which included provisions for his wife Iman, his two children, and a few close associates, showcased his meticulous approach to ensuring that his legacy would be managed according to his wishes.
David Bowie ©Evan Agostini /Getty Images
By utilizing a marital trust, Bowie not only provided for his spouse but also safeguarded his children’s inheritance, demonstrating foresight in protecting his estate from potential future disputes. Bowie’s estate planning reflects a balanced approach to addressing the personal and financial needs of his survivors, ensuring a lasting legacy that honors his artistic and familial intentions.
