Michael Jackson’s daughter, Paris Jackson, has publicly accused the King of Pop’s estate executors of mishandling her family’s funds. She claims the estate’s decisions have created severe financial hardship. In the most pointed allegations to date, Paris is asserting official mismanagement.
Estate Freeze Sparks Crisis
Paris’s statement centers on a stalled distribution of trust funds caused by an IRS dispute over asset valuation. The estate owes an estimated $700 million tax penalty, linked to how Michael Jackson’s catalog and holdings were appraised.
Executors John Branca and John McClain have contended they cannot “possibly determine what amount could be safely distributed” until the IRS finishes revaluating the catalog. As a result, Paris and her siblings—23‑year‑old Bigi and 27‑year‑old Prince—along with their 94‑year‑old grandmother Katherine Jackson, have been denied full access to trust funds.
Paris Speaks Out
Paris issued a statement through her legal representatives. She alleges the estate is making poor decisions and failing heirs in their fiduciary duties.
Though she has not released full text publicly, the tone resembled this:
“I trust that my father’s legacy will not be misused by those entrusted to manage it.”
She further expressed frustration with delays that prevent basic support payments.
Executors Respond
A spokeswoman for the estate defended the record. She said they continue to provide significant allowances and have approved every maintenance request for Katherine Jackson and the children She added:
“Virtually no request of Mrs. Jackson for her care or maintenance has been declined.”
What’s at Stake
At issue is Michael Jackson’s music catalog, valued at over $1.2 billion, half of which is being sold to Sony. Disagreements over valuation have stalled all assets. Without resolution, heirs remain frozen out. Katherine reportedly has already received over $55 million since Michael’s death in 2009.
Executors appealed a previous tax ruling in 2021 and won, prompting IRS reconsideration. Now another petition awaits resolution before distributions resume.