Jackson Family Drama: Why Are These Two Fighting?!

Jackson Family Drama: Why Are These Two Fighting?!
Michael Jackson | King of Pop

Michael Jackson, the “King of Pop,” left behind a musical legacy and a massive fortune estimated at $2 billion. However, his net worth continues to be a source of contention years after his passing in 2009. At the center of this ongoing legal battle is a surprising figure: Katherine Jackson, Michael’s mother, and her grandson, Bigi Jackson (formerly known as Blanket), the youngest of Michael’s three children.

A Will Designed for Controversy

Michael Jackson’s will divided his estate among his three children, Paris Jackson, Prince Jackson, and Bigi Jackson, with his mother, Katherine, named as the guardian of the children until they reached adulthood. The will also established a trust, with complex terms regarding disbursement of funds to the beneficiaries.

Michael Jackson, Paris Jackson, Prince Jackson, and Bigi Jackson in the kitchen.
Michael Jackson | Paris Jackson | Prince Jackson | Bigi Jackson

The terms of this trust are where things get intricate. While the exact details remain confidential, we know it likely outlined how the estate’s holdings, which included property, investments, and intellectual property rights to Michael’s music, would be distributed to the beneficiaries over time.

Many trusts, especially those designed for beneficiaries who are young at the time of the grantor’s death (like Michael’s children were in 2009), dole out funds in stages. This could involve receiving a set amount upon reaching a certain age (18 or 21 are common benchmarks) with larger sums distributed later in life. This staggered approach can be a safeguard intended to ensure financial responsibility and prevent beneficiaries from squandering a large inheritance.

Here’s where the current legal battle intersects with the trust structure. Bigi Jackson, through his lawyers, argues that the trust funds shouldn’t be used to cover legal fees associated with the Sony deal because the agreement wasn’t directly beneficial to him or his siblings. This suggests Bigi Jackson questions how the trust distinguishes between administrative costs (like legal fees) and disbursements to the beneficiaries.

Katherine Jackson: The Enigmatic Matriarch

Katherine Jackson has been a constant presence throughout Michael’s life, managing his early career with the Jackson 5. 

Bigi Jackson and Katherine Jackson in their legal showdown.
Bigi Jackson | Katherine Jackson

Following his death, she assumed the role of co-executor of the estate alongside attorney John Branca. However, friction arose between Katherine and the estate’s management in 2010, leading to her removal as co-executor.

Bigi Jackson Steps Out of the Shadows

Bigi Jackson, now 22, has largely remained out of the public eye. However, court filings indicate he is now involved in a legal dispute with the estate, represented by his own lawyers. The specific details of Bigi Jackson’s grievance haven’t been made public, beyond his contention that trust funds have been misappropriated on legal fees to no benefit of the beneficiaries.

Beyond the Dollars: A Family Divided?

This legal battle raises questions about the relationship between Bigi Jackson and the rest of the family. While the details remain private, the public dispute suggests a potential rift within the Jackson family.

A Legacy Tarnished? The Price of Fame

Michael Jackson’s legacy is a complex one, marked by both his musical genius and personal struggles. 

Prince Jackson, Bigi Jackson, and Paris Jackson honoring their father Michael Jackson at Award Show.
Prince Jackson | Bigi Jackson | Paris Jackson

This ongoing legal battle casts a shadow on his memory, raising questions about the impact of fame and fortune on family dynamics.

Uncertain Future: Will Resolution Be Found?

With both sides entrenched in their positions, it’s unclear how this legal battle will be resolved. A judge’s decision or a possible out-of-court settlement could bring closure. However, the public may never know the full extent of the disagreement or the underlying family tensions.

Conclusion

Michael Jackson’s legacy is a double-edged sword. His musical genius is undeniable. He revolutionized pop music with his electrifying performances and groundbreaking music videos. His influence continues to inspire countless artists today. However, his life was marred by allegations of misconduct that tarnished his public image.

This ongoing legal battle adds another layer of complexity to his legacy. It raises questions about the impact of immense wealth on family dynamics. Public disputes over money can create a narrative of greed and discord, overshadowing the positive aspects of a person’s life.

Ultimately, the Michael Jackson estate saga serves as a stark reminder of the dark side of fame and fortune. Sadly, the Jackson family saga isn’t unique. Stories of celebrity families fractured by fortune are far too common. While immense wealth can offer opportunities and security, it can also come at a steep price, jeopardizing personal relationships, and casting a shadow on a hard-earned legacy.

Were you aware of this legal drama? Given what we know, who do you think is in the right?