The tensions between Paris Jackson and the executors of her late father Michael Jackson’s estate have reached a new peak. In newly filed court documents obtained by Us Weekly, Paris has launched a strong challenge against the estate’s co-executors, John Branca and John McClain, accusing them of financial misconduct and lack of transparency.
A Legal Battle Behind the Curtain
On October 3, Paris, 27, filed an opposition to the executors’ request for payment of third-party law firm fees. Her legal team argues that Branca and McClain made “six-figure, extra-contractual payments” in 2018 and possibly “millions more in undisclosed gifts” in the years since.
Paris’ lawyer compared the executors to the “Wizard of Oz,” claiming they expect the court to “trust them blindly” while “refusing to let anyone look behind the curtain.”
The motion asserts:
“Executors admit making six-figure, extra-contractual payments … That conduct, born of comfort and arrogance, is indefensible.”
Paris maintains that her concerns are valid and that she has every right to question the executors’ handling of funds. Her filing further states:
“It should be obvious that executors are not immune from criticism based on misconduct disclosed in their filings.”
The estate, however, has fired back, revealing that more than $65 million has been spent on Paris since her father’s passing in 2009. The executors argue that their management has been exemplary, transforming an estate “that started out as nothing but debt” into a $2 billion powerhouse.
Executors Defend Their Record
Branca and McClain’s legal team dismissed Paris’ objections, claiming her challenges are based on “baseless and defamatory” allegations. They argue that bonuses paid to law firms were “customary and appropriate,” especially considering the estate generated nearly $300 million in 2018 alone.
A statement from estate attorney Jonathan Steinsapir emphasized:
“Few have benefited more from the Executors’ business judgment than [Paris] herself. The historic turnaround and success of the Estate speaks for itself.”
Since Michael Jackson’s passing in June 2009, his estate has reported extraordinary growth, from financial turmoil to one of the most successful posthumous legacies in entertainment history. Still, Paris insists that oversight and accountability should apply even to the executors who helped build that success.
A judge has not yet ruled on the matter.
What We’ve Learned About the Estate’s Finances
The same court filings have also revealed new details about the Michael Jackson Estate’s income and spending, shedding light on how money continues to flow 16 years after the King of Pop’s death.
In accounting documents filed in September 2021, Branca and McClain disclosed that the estate earned over $46 million in income during a 12-month period, including $308,673 in royalties and residuals from Michael’s film and music work. Among the entries:
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$50 payments from NBC for The Wiz in August and October 2021.
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Over $4,000 from Broadcast Music Inc.
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$2,500 residuals from Universal Music Group (The Jackson 5 and Michael Jackson on Motown label).
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A $250,000 payout from a Capital One commercial using Michael’s music.
The filings also revealed over $700 million in assets, along with millions in legal and consulting fees. The estate reportedly paid:
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$2 million to Ziffren Brittenham law firm.
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$2.5 million in other legal fees.
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Nearly $8 million in fees to a co-executive and creative director (which are mostly for Branca, McClain and Langford).
Support for the Jackson Family
Michael’s children, Paris, Prince, and Bigi, remain the primary beneficiaries of the estate, alongside their grandmother Katherine Jackson. During the 12-month accounting period:
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Paris Jackson received approximately $3.27 million in payments, plus $10,000 for home construction.
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Prince Jackson received $2.13 million, including tuition and lifestyle expenses.
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Bigi Jackson’s expenses totaled $1.05 million, including tuition and taxes.
The estate also maintains properties for each family member, as well as full coverage for living costs, taxes, and security.
According to the executors, these financial decisions reflect Michael’s wishes for his family’s care:
“These efforts have enabled the Executors to continue to provide uninterrupted and generous support for Mrs. Jackson and Michael Jackson’s children as Michael intended.”
The Bigger Picture
While the estate’s financial performance has undeniably been strong, Paris Jackson’s filings highlight a growing debate about transparency and accountability within Michael Jackson’s posthumous empire. Her latest statement, that “executors are not immune from criticism”, underscores her belief that even in an estate as successful as her father’s, oversight remains essential.
The court has yet to issue a ruling, but whatever the outcome, this latest chapter reminds fans that behind the extraordinary business success of the Michael Jackson Estate lies an ongoing, deeply personal family struggle over legacy, loyalty, and control.
