Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · October 15, 2025 · Entertainment

Paris Jackson's $65M Estate Windfall Sparks Legal Feud

Michael Jackson's estate executors said that his daughter Paris, 27, has gotten around $65 million in proceeds from the estate in the 16 years since his death. Paris seen October 11 in LA

The Bitter Battle for Michael Jackson's $2 Billion Empire

It's been nearly 16 years since the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, left this world behind, but his estate is still shrouded in drama and controversy. His daughter Paris, who inherited a significant portion of her father's wealth, has been questioning the handling of his business affairs by executors John Branca and John McClain.

In a recent motion filed on October 9, the executors revealed that Paris has received a whopping $65 million from the estate since her father's passing in 2009. This staggering amount is just one aspect of the intricate web of financial transactions and power struggles surrounding Jackson's empire.

The disclosure came via an October 9 motion in which executors John Branca and John McClain answered back to Paris' questioning of their handling of the late King of Pop's business affairs. Jackson seen in 1988

According to thescholarlynote.com, attorneys for Branca and McClain stated that their business acumen allowed Paris to reap these massive financial windfalls, which would not have been possible without their expertise. "Few have benefited more from the Executors’ business judgment than [Paris] herself," they claimed.

But this is not a story of gratitude and appreciation; it's a tale of cutthroat ambition and family drama. Paris, who has long been vocal about her concerns regarding the management of her father's estate, had previously sought to put legal scrutiny on the executors in a June 24 filing. She alleged that questionable bonuses and "premium" payouts were made in 2018.

In their motion, the executors fired back, asserting that they transformed Jackson's estate from a debt-ridden disaster into a $2 billion powerhouse. They invoked words of praise from a judge, who previously commended their business savviness in turning the estate around.

Lawyers for the executors said that 'few have benefited more from the Executors¿ business judgment than [Paris] herself, who has received roughly $65 million from the Estate in benefits'

The battle for control of Jackson's empire is not new; it has been simmering since his passing. The executors have been at odds with Paris and her team over issues such as bonus payments, attorney fees, and the handling of EMI shares. In 2018, Sony purchased the estate's shares of EMI for a whopping $287 million return on investment.

Now, it appears that tensions are escalating between the parties involved. The executors have accused Paris' attorneys of knowingly spreading false information about the bonuses and attorney fees. "Bonuses are not paid without consideration; they are paid for extraordinary services and results," they maintained.

Meanwhile, Paris has been vocal about her concerns regarding the management of her father's estate. In a petition filed in June, her lawyers alleged that $625,000 in "gifts" and "gratuities" were dispersed to three law firms without proper approval. They also claimed that two of these firms received "premium payments" in breach of court orders.

Jackson had kept a low profile in the years before his 2009 death, ahead of a planned comeback with a series of shows in London at the O2 Arena. Pictured in March 2009 in London

The drama surrounding Michael Jackson's estate is far from over. With billions of dollars at stake, it's no wonder that the battle for control has become so intense. Will Paris and her team be able to wrestle control back from Branca and McClain? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – this saga will continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

The Scandalous Story of Dr. Conrad Murray

As we delve into the world of Michael Jackson's estate, it's impossible not to recall the tragic circumstances surrounding his passing in 2009. His personal doctor, Dr. Conrad Murray, was later convicted of involuntary manslaughter and sentenced to four years in prison for administering a lethal dose of propofol.

Police cars blocked the entrance at the Los Angeles County Department of the Coroner where the body of the late Michael Jackson was taken following his death on June 25, 2009

Jackson had been relying on propofol to sleep, which he referred to as "milk" during an IV drip administered by Murray. The singer's family and fans around the world were devastated by his untimely death, which sparked an outpouring of tributes and condolences.

But the controversy surrounding Dr. Murray's actions only grew in the years that followed. In 2011, he was convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to prison time. His carelessness had led to the tragic loss of a life that will forever be etched in our collective memory.

A Legacy Worth Fighting For

(L-R) Janet Jackson, Paris Jackson, LaToya Jackson, Jermaine Jackson and Prince Michael Jackson were pictured at his July 7, 2009 memorial at Staples Center in LA

Michael Jackson's impact on music and popular culture cannot be overstated. With 13 Grammy Awards to his name, he is widely regarded as one of the greatest artists of all time. His legacy extends far beyond his impressive accolades, however – it represents a commitment to artistic excellence, social justice, and innovative storytelling.

As we navigate the complex web of power struggles and financial intrigue surrounding Jackson's estate, let us not forget the significance of his art and its enduring impact on our world. The battle for control of his empire is just one aspect of a much larger story – one that celebrates creativity, passion, and the indomitable spirit of a true legend.

Sources:

  • Thescholarlynote.com
  • People Magazine