Michael Jackson’s sudden death last Thursday leaves many unanswered questions not only surrounding the circumstances of his death, but also about how his estate will be handled and by whom.
USA Today reports that while Jackson made roughty $1 billion over the course of his career, unpaid debts could cost more than $400 million. His most valuable asset (and foremost on the minds of music fans everywhere) is his publishing venture with Sony/ATV, owner of the rights to a large portion of the Beatles catalogue. AEG will likely release a CD and DVD of the singer’s final rehearsals as he prepared for a string of shows in London.
His mother, Katherine Jackson, filed a petition this morning to gain sole custody of his three children and was granted temporary guardianship. Jackson’s former wife, Debbie Rowe, is the mother of the oldest children, while the youngest was born to a surrogate mother. Rowe reportedly gave sole custody to Jackson. A hearing for permanent guardianship is set for August 3.
Sister Janet Jackson appeared at the BET Awards last night to thank fans for their support. Funeral plans have not yet been announced.
TOPICS: News