Jackson’s Will May Cause Family Rift
E! Online posted this morning about the emergence of Michael Jackson’s will. The biggest revelation? The singer’s father, Joe Jackson, got shut out. The senior Jackson, who had a public (and, at times, allegedly violent) relationship with his famous son, was not named as an heir to the Michael Jackson estate.
If Joe got snubbed, who got named in the will? Reports indicate that Jackson’s three children and his mother Katherine Jackson were included in the will. Read more here:
The question of whether Michael Jackson had a valid will at the time of his death just got a little more complicated.
Yesterday, parents Joe and Katherine Jackson sought control of Michael’s estate, claiming in court documents that the King of Pop died without a will. Hours later, one drafted in 2002 surfaced.
According to the Wall Street Journal, the document—which will no doubt be the centerpiece of a lengthy and ferocious legal battle in months to come—divides the superstar’s estate among his mother, his three children (Prince Michael, Paris and Prince Michael II) and at least one charity.
It’s unclear what custody arrangements, if any, Jackson made for his three children. But a court ruling yesterday gave temporary guardianship to Katherine.
At least one aspect of the will does appear to be clear: Joe Jackson wasn’t named as an heir.
The will, drafted by Jackson’s longtime attorney John Branca, may be filed in probate court as early as Thursday.