Music
Paris Jackson has filed a legal petition challenging the management of her late father’s estate. The move comes more than 17 years after Michael Jackson‘s death and brings renewed attention to the fortune he left behind. The filing also concerns how the estate is supposed to fund trusts benefiting his three children.
According to Page Sixin an October 29 filing, Paris asked a Los Angeles judge to order a partial distribution of $600 million in estate assets to the Michael Jackson Family Trust, which was established to provide for her and her brothers. The trust was established to provide for Paris and her brothers, Prince and Bigi Jackson. She alleges that longtime estate executor John Branca has failed to fund the trust despite the estate generating billions of dollars over the years.
Paris argued that there was no legitimate reason for the delay. According to the filing, the lack of funding has left the siblings dependent on Branca for money, with Jackson alleging that they receive smaller amounts determined by the remaining executor. The petition states, “More than 17 years after his passing, Michael Jackson’s family trust remains unfunded.”
The court filing raises new questions about Michael Jackson’s plans for his children
Michael Jackson died in June 2009, leaving behind three children. His will stated that they would receive income from their respective trusts when they turned 21. It also outlined plans to distribute portions of the principal to them at ages 30, 35, and 40.
However, Paris alleges that the executors have failed to follow the intended arrangements. She claims that the children have received smaller payments determined by Branca rather than distributions through the family trust. She also argues that the estate has sufficient funds to make an initial transfer without waiting for every outstanding legal matter to conclude.
The petition points to several major business transactions. These include the sale of the estate’s interest in EMI Music Publishing and Neverland Ranch. It also highlights a deal with Sony involving Michael’s music catalog and intellectual property. It also estimates that the estate had approximately $850 million in cash and cash equivalents at the end of 2024.
The estate has disputed Paris’ allegations. Its representatives called the claim that Branca withheld or reduced payments a “complete fabrication.” They also said they had already distributed or spent more than $200 million for the beneficiaries. The estate said the IRS had sought $700 million in taxes and penalties, adding that a ruling had significantly reduced the amount but that the dispute remained unresolved.
The court is scheduled to consider Paris Jackson’s request at a December 4, 2026, hearing.