The Beatles are best known for the impact their music had on the world. The iconic foursome transformed the music industry and popular culture, as their legendary songs have remained ubiquitous for generations. Yet they leave another legacy, as the group’s two deceased members’ estates would end up in unique court battles.
Nowhere Man: John Lennon
John Lennon, who was murdered outside his New York City apartment building in 1980, amassed an $800 million fortune throughout his ultra-successful career. Ten years before his death, John executed a last will that nominated his controversial second wife, Yoko Ono, as the executor and trustee of his estate. This gave Yoko vast control over John’s assets, including many of his song rights. He left all his wealth to Yoko and their son, Sean, as the only beneficiaries of his estate.Here Comes the Son: John Lennon’s last will disinherited his eldest son Julian.
Lennon’s will cut out his eldest son Julian, a child from his first marriage. Julian contested the will on the grounds that Yoko Ono had unduly influenced his father into drafting the will. This led to the classic set-up of child v. seemingly ill-willed step-mother, fighting for a share of the estate.Happiness is a Warm Sum: The Settlement
It took a while for everything to come together, and after a grueling 16 years of litigation in Surrogate’s Court, Yoko finally settled with Julian for an undisclosed amount. However, rumor has it that the settlement was approximately $25 million—nowhere close to what Julian would have received if John had no will.Don’t Just Let It Be: What if Julian was able to prove that John’s will was invalid?
If Julian was able to prove that Yoko unduly influenced John into making the will, then Julian’s share would have increased dramatically. Under New York State intestacy law, Julian would be entitled to about 25% of his father’s estate—about $200 million instead of $25 million. (Yoko would have received only about half the $800 million. And Sean would have received the other 25%.)Can’t Buy Me Love, But You Can Buy Memorabilia
To make matters worse, after the settlement, Yoko began auctioning John’s possessions. This included letters that Julian had written to his father. Julian used his settlement proceeds to purchase these letters back. Imagine having to use your inheritance to buy back your childhood?
Were you disinherited by your rockstar dad? Was your parent’s will drafted as a product of undue influence? Get by with a little help from Antonelli & Antonelli. We’re here for you eight days a week.
If you liked this article please check out our blog regarding George Harrison's estate!
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