Entertainment

Paris Jackson questions jet travel and millions in fees at her dad's estate

Paris Jackson objected to the Michael Jackson estate's 2022 accounting over private jets and fees. The estate says it runs like a business with normal costs.

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Paris Jackson with wavy blond hair looking over her shoulder on a red carpet

Paris Jackson is digging into how her late father's estate spends its money.

In new court papers her lawyers pushed back on the yearly accounting that executor John Branca turned in back in April. That report covers 2022. Paris argues it leaves out details on 18 businesses the estate owns.

The challenge comes as she pushes for her family trust to receive $600 million.

Jets and big bills

Her team flagged money spent on private jet travel. They also pointed to $604,850.09 in credit card charges and law firm costs that they called "unspecified."

The filing raises questions about large public relations bills too. Legal bills came to $3,827,520.20. Another $9,415,074 went to Branca and the late co-executor John McClain as pay for their roles.

Paris also objected to money that went to James Sebenius, a Harvard Business School professor hired as a consultant. She claims that work mostly boosted Branca's image as a "legendary" lawyer rather than helping the estate.

The biopic and the bank accounts

Her lawyers say Branca burned through millions on reshoots for "Michael" while serving as an executive producer. They claim that money has not been earned back. Miles Teller was cast to play Branca in the film.

The papers also ask why more than $440 million was parked in bank accounts paying little interest. Her side argues Branca only cares about gross entertainment revenue because of how he gets paid.

Paris wants the judge to reject the accounting and order a complete new version.

The estate hits back

A spokesperson for the estate brushed off the complaints. "Once again, Ms. Jackson’s legal team raises the same hollow complaints and fails to acknowledge the unique structure of the Estate, which is operated as a dynamic business, with customary costs and expenses."

According to the rep, the estate owed $500 million at the time of Michael's death. It has since brought in $3 billion and produced a biopic that topped $1 billion at the global box office.

Paris' camp fired right back. "No rhetoric can hide the fact that Mr. Branca has used Estate funds to create a lavish lifestyle complete with charging personal trips on private jets to the Estate," her rep said.

Both sides are due in court for a hearing on Dec. 7.

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