Celebrity Estates: Wills of the Rich and Famous

Unexpected events can expose gaps in even the most carefully prepared estate plans. When family conflict, legal standards and timing collide, the outcome can reshape how assets move and who ultimately benefits. In this episode of Celebrity Estates, Senior Editor David Lenok examines the estate of Rob Reiner alongside Sean Weissbart, partner and co-chair of the Tax Benefits and Private Client Practice Group at Blank Rome. The conversation focuses on how slayer statutes function, why probate courts rely on civil standards rather than criminal convictions, and how intent and mental state influence inheritance outcomes. Sean explains how being treated as predeceased can redirect assets, how insanity defenses may affect eligibility and why simultaneous death rules and community property laws matter when spouses die close in time.  Join David Lenok and Sean Weissbart as they break down the estate planning lessons behind rare legal scenarios and the importance of thoughtful planning when the unexpected occurs. Key takeaways: How slayer statutes prevent financial benefit after intentional and felonious killing Why civil standards of proof differ from criminal convictions in estate matters How predeceased treatment redirects inheritances to alternate beneficiaries The role of insanity defenses, trusts and fiduciaries in inheritance outcomes Why simultaneous death provisions and planning details can reshape asset flow Resources: Listen to Celebrity Estates on Wealth Management Subscribe and listen to Celebrity Estates on Apple Podcasts Subscribe and listen to Celebrity Estates on Spotify Trust and Estates Magazine Connect With David Lenok: david.lenok@informa.com  Wealth Management LinkedIn: David Lenok LinkedIn: Informa LinkedIn: Wealth Management Connect With Sean Weissbart: LinkedIn: Sean Weissbart LinkedIn: Blank Rome Website: Blank Rome About Our Guest: As one of the most regarded millennial estate planners in the country, Sean plays an integral role in the lives of his clients, working together to create legacies that are tax efficient and responsive to the unique needs of each family. On Sean’s practice and style, Chambers USA quotes a client saying that “Sean Weissbart is a very creative estate tax lawyer, and he’s always looking to provide a fuller package than just documents. He cares quite a bit about his bedside manner, and it shows.” Another states, “There are three things that stand out about Sean. First is his ability to accommodate clients, second is his passion for the work he does and third is his empathy.” Clients turn to Sean to handle all aspects of estate planning, the administration of trusts and estates, and the representation of beneficiaries and fiduciaries in contested matters in Surrogate’s Court. Sean’s extensive experience includes advising international families on the impact of U.S. tax laws on their wealth. In international estate matters, Sean assists non-citizens with domestic assets navigate the complicated rules surrounding the tax-efficient transfer of their wealth and counsels U.S. citizens facing income tax issues related to their beneficial interest in foreign trusts.   Sean also represents clients on matrimonial matters, including the negotiation of prenuptial and postnuptial agreements and trust modifications following divorce. In addition to his law practice, Sean serves as an adjunct professor of law at New York University School of Law, where he teaches Income Taxation of Trusts and Estates, International Estate Planning, and Tax Aspects of Charitable Giving. He is an author of the law school textbook The Income Taxation of Trusts and Estates, a fellow of The American College of Trust and Estate Counsel, and a regular speaker at the nation’s most prestigious tax conferences. He gives back to the community through many philanthropic endeavors including his service on the board of the Ment’or BKB Foundation and as event chair of the Trusts and Estates Committee of the UJA Federation of New York, having raised millions of dollars to assist those in need.

Legacy is often shaped less by what is given and more by how values are shared across generations. In this episode of Celebrity Estates, wealth manager Philip Richter joins the show to explore philanthropy as a core part of estate planning and family decision-making. The conversation examines The Giving Pledge and how charitable intent, when left informal or unspoken, can lead to confusion, missed opportunities and misalignment among heirs. Philip explains why separating legacy from inheritance helps families focus on purpose rather than dollar amounts. He also shares how donor-advised funds, private foundations and charitable trusts can bring structure to giving while encouraging communication and shared responsibility. Join Senior Editor David Lenok and Philip Richter, president and partner at Hollow Brook Wealth Management, as they break down the estate planning lessons behind philanthropy, generational education and building a legacy that extends beyond assets. Philip discusses: How philanthropy can strengthen family communication while aligning values across generations through shared giving plans Why separating legacy from inheritance helps families focus on purpose, not just asset transfer Common structures for charitable giving, including donor-advised funds, private foundations, and charitable trusts The role advisors play in moderating sensitive family discussions around wealth, values, and responsibility Why early education and transparency prepare heirs to steward both capital and charitable intentions Resources: Listen to Celebrity Estates on WealthManagement.com Subscribe and listen to Celebrity Estates on Apple Podcasts Subscribe and listen to Celebrity Estates on Spotify Trust and Estates Magazine Connect With David Lenok: david.lenok@informa.com  WealthManagement.com LinkedIn: David Lenok LinkedIn: Informa LinkedIn: WealthManagement Connect With Philip Richter: Website: Hollow Brook Wealth Management LinkedIn: Hollow Brook Wealth Management LinkedIn: Philip Richter About Our Guest: Philip Richter is the President and Partner of Hollow Brook Wealth Management where he oversees firm-wide client relations, marketing and business development, and sits on the investment committee. Philip is involved with asset allocation, manager selection, and equity research. Philip previously served on the board of directors of WidePoint Corporation (NYSE: WYY). Currently, Philip sits on the board of the United States Equestrian Team Foundation, the United States Equestrian Federation, Revs Institute, and the Pray Family Foundation. Philip is the Chairman of the Lake Placid Horse Show, and the Treasurer of the Hampton Classic Horse Show. Philip received a BA from Boston College and an MBA from the Stern School of Business at New York University. Philip is a vintage car enthusiast who maintains a collection of modern classics and pre-war motorcycles. He participates in international car shows, hosts the Turtle Invitational (a biennial car show in Bedford, NY), and is a regular contributor to many equine and collector car publications. Philip also competes in equestrian show jumping in the high amateur-owner division.

Money passed down with good intentions can still create conflict, confusion and long-lasting family tension. In this episode of Celebrity Estates, estate planning attorney Don D. Ford III joins the show to examine why more high-net-worth families are choosing to limit inheritances, not out of neglect, but out of concern for the long-term health of their family relationships. The discussion centers on how silence, assumptions and sudden wealth transfers can trigger conflict. Don shares how unequal planning, lack of preparation and delayed conversations frequently lead to disputes between siblings. He also shares real examples showing how family meetings, philanthropy and thoughtful trust structures can reduce confusion and set clearer expectations. Join Senior Editor David Lenok and Don Ford, managing partner at Ford + Bergner, as they unpack the estate planning lessons behind inheritance decisions that are meant to protect families, not divide them. Key takeaways: Why sudden wealth transfers often strain sibling relationships, and how early conversations can reduce resentment How family meetings help define shared values, expectations and long-term intentions around money The difference between equal treatment and fair treatment among children with different abilities Ways philanthropy can unite heirs and create shared purpose beyond personal inheritance Why silence around estate plans often leads to confusion, conflict and costly disputes Resources: Listen to Celebrity Estates on WealthManagement.com Subscribe and listen to Celebrity Estates on Apple Podcasts Subscribe and listen to Celebrity Estates on Spotify Trust and Estates Magazine Connect With David Lenok: david.lenok@informa.com  WealthManagement.com LinkedIn: David Lenok LinkedIn: Informa LinkedIn: WealthManagement Connect With Don Ford: Website: Ford + Bergner LLP LinkedIn: Ford + Bergner LLP LinkedIn: Don D. Ford Email: dford@fordbergner.com  About Our Guest: Don D. Ford is the managing partner of Ford + Bergner, an estate planning and probate law firm with offices in Houston, Dallas, and Austin. His practice focuses on guiding families through complex estate planning, probate administration, and guardianship matters, particularly for high-net-worth households. Board-certified in estate planning and probate law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, Don is also trained in mediation and has served on the state guardianship certification board, where he helped shape policy and oversight for professional guardians.

Doug Woodham, managing partner at Art Fiduciary Advisors and former president at Christie's, dives into the complexities of Jean-Michel Basquiat’s estate. He discusses the challenges of intestacy, the impact of a volatile art market, and the liquidity crisis following Basquiat's unexpected death. Key insights include the complications of valuing illiquid assets, the disputes that erupted among claimants, and how Basquiat's sisters eventually turned the estate into a successful licensing business amid ongoing tax negotiations.

In this engaging discussion, Victoria Gray, the founder of Insight Art & Collectibles Advisory, shares her deep expertise in estate matters as she unravels the complexities of Gene Hackman's estate. They explore the consequences of neglecting to update an estate plan for nearly two decades and how simultaneous death laws can muddy inheritance waters. Victoria emphasizes the necessity of clear documentation and the value of trusts in avoiding disputes. Plus, gain insights on how art and memorabilia factor into estate evaluations, shedding light on intricate estate planning challenges.

Michael Napoleone, a seasoned litigator at Day Pitney, joins to unravel the intricate John Amos estate dispute. He discusses the rising tension surrounding inheritance issues driven by longer lifespans and cognitive decline. With compelling insights, he reveals how family dynamics, such as sibling rivalries and blended families, can escalate into legal battles. Michael emphasizes the critical need for clear communication and proactive estate planning to maintain both wealth and family ties, shedding light on how emotional histories can fuel these complex conflicts.

Matthew Erskine, a fourth-generation estate planning attorney and owner of The Erskine Company, dives into the evolving world of estate planning. He emphasizes that life events like marriage, divorce, and relocation necessitate regular updates to estate plans. Communication among family members is crucial to prevent future disputes. Erskine also highlights the need to adapt to changes in laws and taxes, treat estate plans as living documents, and the value of annual reviews to ensure everything remains current and relevant.

In this discussion, Kevin Ghassomian, a partner at Venable LLP specializing in estate planning for high-net-worth individuals, delves into Giorgio Armani's unique succession strategy after his passing. Armani’s $12 billion legacy highlights the importance of early planning and separating personal assets from control to maintain brand identity. Kevin emphasizes the role of a foundation in ensuring mission-driven continuity and discusses the complexities of planning without direct heirs, offering valuable insights for business owners on effective estate management.

In this engaging discussion, Tasha Dickinson, a Florida Bar Board-Certified estate lawyer, delves into the complexities of Ozzy Osbourne's estate. She reveals the unique challenges that blended families face and offers strategies to minimize conflicts through communication and independent fiduciaries. Tasha also highlights the tricky management of music royalties and how early collaboration between advisors can streamline the planning process. Tune in for essential lessons on navigating the intricate world of celebrity estates!

Lawrence D. Mandelker, a Partner at Venable LLP, shares his expertise on the convoluted world of celebrity estates. The discussion centers on Hulk Hogan's $25 million legacy and the chaos of blended families. They delve into the challenges of estate planning amidst multiple marriages and strained relationships. Key insights include balancing fairness among heirs and utilizing tools like trusts and disclaimers. Mandelker emphasizes the need for proactive conversations and lifetime gifts to mitigate potential conflicts down the line.