By Sohaib Shams
Paris Jackson, 28, is locked in a protracted legal battle with John Branca, the sole executor of her father Michael Jackson's estate, over alleged irregular payments and a trust for the late singer's three children that she says remains unfunded after 17 years.
Background: Estate's financial turnaround
After Michael Jackson's death in 2009, the estate faced more than $500 million in debt. Executors John Branca and John McClain managed assets, selling a 50% stake in the music catalog to Sony in 2024, Neverland Ranch in 2020, and the Beatles publishing rights earlier. The estate grew to an estimated $2 billion.
Family disputes emerge
Beneficiaries are Jackson's three children: Prince, Paris, and Bigi. In 2024, son Bigi moved to block grandmother Katherine Jackson from using estate funds for a legal challenge over the Sony catalog deal. Court filings revealed Katherine received over $55 million since 2009.
Paris Jackson raises concerns
In July 2025, Paris objected to legal fee requests, alleging "premium payments" for unrecorded attorney time. In August 2025, she accused a group of lawyers of "skimming money" due to lack of oversight. Estate attorney Jonathan Steinsapir denied the claims, citing billions generated for the children.
Executors defend record
In October 2025, Branca and McClain stated Paris received roughly $65 million in benefits. They argued they turned a debt-ridden estate into a $2 billion powerhouse.
Legal setbacks and renewed claims
In November 2025, a judge dismissed Paris's claims on procedural grounds, citing First Amendment protections for court filings. Paris vowed to continue. She also criticized Branca's role as executive producer on the biopic "Michael" and the casting of Miles Teller as Branca.
Recent developments
The biopic released in April 2026. In May 2026, a judge ordered $625,000 in bonuses returned to the estate, a win for Paris. Co-executor John McClain died later that month. In October 2026, Paris filed a new motion claiming Branca paid himself over $100 million in two years. As of November 2026, she is seeking to transfer $600 million to the Michael Jackson Children's Trust, which she says remains unfunded. The estate says it cannot fully fund trusts until legal issues resolve, but notes over $200 million already distributed.
