CELEBRITY
Paris Jackson’s nasty $600M battle over dad Michael Jackson’s fortune takes shocking new turn
Paris Jackson’s ongoing legal battle over her late father Michael Jackson’s multibillion-dollar estate has taken another dramatic turn, as the singer and actress seeks court intervention to secure a $600 million transfer to the family trust established for her and her two brothers.
More than 17 years after the King of Pop’s death, the dispute has intensified over the management of his fortune, the timing of inheritance payments, and the responsibilities of the estate’s executor.
Paris Jackson Demands $600 Million Transfer
In a petition filed on October 29, Paris asked a Los Angeles judge to order the transfer of approximately $600 million from her father’s estate into the Michael Jackson Family Trust, which is intended to benefit her and her brothers, Prince and Bigi Jackson.
According to the filing, the family trust remains unfunded despite the estate generating billions of dollars through business transactions, music deals, and asset sales since Michael Jackson died in 2009.
Paris argues that her father intended his children to begin receiving income from their trust shares when they turned 21, followed by principal distributions at later milestones.
Her petition alleges that the estate’s remaining executor, John Branca, has failed to fulfill those intentions, leaving the siblings dependent on his decisions regarding their inheritance.
Estate Pushes Back Against Allegations
The estate has strongly disputed Paris’s allegations, maintaining that outstanding legal matters prevent the trusts from being fully funded.
In a statement, representatives for the estate pointed to ongoing litigation with the Internal Revenue Service, which previously sought approximately $700 million in taxes and penalties.
The estate said it had secured a ruling that significantly reduced the potential liability but emphasized that the matter remains unresolved.
It also rejected claims that payments to the beneficiaries had been withheld or reduced, stating that more than $200 million had already been distributed for their benefit.
The estate further argued that Michael Jackson’s will specifies that his children are not entitled to principal distributions until they reach their 30s.
Growing Tensions Over Estate Management
The $600 million petition is part of a broader dispute between Paris and the estate’s management.
In separate court filings, Paris has challenged financial accountings and questioned certain expenses, compensation arrangements, and the handling of estate funds.
Her legal team has argued that the executor should provide greater transparency and accountability regarding the management of her father’s assets.
The estate, meanwhile, maintains that its management has transformed a heavily indebted estate into one of the most financially successful in entertainment history.
What Happens Next?
A hearing on Paris’s request is scheduled for December 4, 2026, when a Los Angeles judge is expected to consider the competing arguments.
The court’s decision could determine whether a substantial portion of Michael Jackson’s fortune is transferred into the family trust while other legal disputes remain unresolved.
For Paris and her brothers, the case represents more than a financial disagreement. It concerns their father’s wishes, their future financial independence, and the stewardship of a legacy that continues to generate enormous worldwide interest.
As the legal battle continues, the outcome remains uncertain, with both sides standing firm on their interpretation of the estate’s obligations.