Celebrity Estates: Wills of the Rich and Famous

Estate planning becomes more complicated when assets, citizenship and tax rules extend beyond a single country. What seems straightforward on paper can quickly involve multiple jurisdictions, reporting requirements, and competing legal systems. In this episode of Celebrity Estates, Senior Editor David Lenok speaks with Martin Behn, partner at Lathrop GPM, about the estate planning challenges that arise when individuals hold assets or citizenship in more than one country. Using the recent death of actress Catherine O’Hara as an example, Martin explains how advisors must identify assets globally, determine which country’s laws apply, and account for international tax treaties. David and Martin also explore how factors like residency, citizenship and domicile influence estate taxation and inheritance outcomes. Their conversation highlights why cross-border planning often requires coordination between advisors and attorneys in different jurisdictions to help families transfer wealth effectively. Key takeaways: Why identifying every asset worldwide is the first step in cross-border estate planningHow tax treaties determine which country controls estate and gift tax treatmentWhy advisors may need estate planning documents in multiple jurisdictionsThe planning risks when countries impose forced heirship rules on estatesThe difference between citizenship, residency and domicile in tax planningAnd more! Resources: Listen to Celebrity Estates on Wealth ManagementSubscribe and listen to Celebrity Estates on Apple PodcastsSubscribe and listen to Celebrity Estates on SpotifyTrust and Estates Magazine Connect With David Lenok: david.lenok@informa.com Wealth ManagementLinkedIn: David LenokLinkedIn: InformaLinkedIn: Wealth Management Connect With Martin Behn: LinkedIn: Martin BehnWebsite: Lathrop GPM About Our Guest: Martin Behn represents clients in matters concerning estate planning, trust administration, probate, and trust litigation. Martin’s practice primarily focuses on estate planning with a multi-generational focus. Martin advises clients regarding sophisticated family wealth transfer and tax planning techniques, including Grantor Retained Annuity Trusts (GRATs), Charitable Remainder Trusts (CRTs), sales to intentionally defective grantor trusts, gift trusts with intentionally defective grantor trust provisions, Irrevocable Life Insurance Trusts (ILITs), and Generation-Skipping transfer Trusts (GST / Heritage Trusts). Prior to joining the firm, Martin was with Sinsheimer Juhnke McIvor & Stroh, LLP in San Luis Obispo, California, and Grant & Gordon, LLP in Palo Alto, California.

Life choices that fall outside the traditional script can expose weaknesses in systems built on long-standing assumptions. When marriage, children and default heirs are not part of the picture, planning must adapt or risk unintended consequences. In this episode of Celebrity Estates, Senior Editor David Lenok explores the estate of Coco Chanel alongside Dr. Jay Zigmont, PhD, MBA, CFP, founder and CEO of Childfree Wealth. Their discussion centers on how outdated legal frameworks intersect with modern family structures, why capacity and undue influence claims arise in high-profile estates, and what happens when significant wealth is directed outside bloodlines. Jay outlines how childfree and permanently childless adults face unique estate and long-term care considerations, why powers of attorney and fiduciary appointments are critical, and how a “die with zero” philosophy can reshape retirement and legacy strategies. Join David Lenok and Dr. Jay Zigmont as they unpack the estate planning lessons behind nontraditional family structures and the importance of aligning financial systems with evolving life paths. Key takeaways: Why 25% of U.S. adults identify as childfree or permanently childlessHow estate law assumptions can create guardianship and inheritance risksWhy many professionals suggest evaluating powers of attorney by midlifeWhy “die with zero” planning challenges traditional AUM modelsHow advisors can adapt systems to better serve nontraditional families Resources: Listen to Celebrity Estates on Wealth ManagementSubscribe and listen to Celebrity Estates on Apple PodcastsSubscribe and listen to Celebrity Estates on SpotifyTrust and Estates Magazine Connect With David Lenok: david.lenok@informa.com Wealth ManagementLinkedIn: David LenokLinkedIn: InformaLinkedIn: Wealth Management Connect With Jay Zigmont: LinkedIn: Jay ZigmontWebsite: Childfree WealthWebsite: Childfree Trust About Our Guest: Dr. Jay Zigmont is on a mission to help people without kids live their best lives, with the plan and finances to support it. He’s a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER and Childfree Wealth Specialist with Childfree Wealth. In short, he’s the go-to expert on navigating the financial road less traveled for people without kids. He’s the author of The Childfree Guide to Life and Money and a cohost of the Childfree Life by Design podcast, where he drops expert knowledge with a dose of humor. Dr. Jay is a frequent contributor to top-tier media outlets, including Forbes, C-Span, TheStreet, and the Wall Street Journal.

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 killingWhy civil standards of proof differ from criminal convictions in estate mattersHow predeceased treatment redirects inheritances to alternate beneficiariesThe role of insanity defenses, trusts and fiduciaries in inheritance outcomesWhy simultaneous death provisions and planning details can reshape asset flow Resources: Listen to Celebrity Estates on Wealth ManagementSubscribe and listen to Celebrity Estates on Apple PodcastsSubscribe and listen to Celebrity Estates on SpotifyTrust and Estates Magazine Connect With David Lenok: david.lenok@informa.com Wealth ManagementLinkedIn: David LenokLinkedIn: InformaLinkedIn: Wealth Management Connect With Sean Weissbart: LinkedIn: Sean WeissbartLinkedIn: Blank RomeWebsite: 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...

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 plansWhy separating legacy from inheritance helps families focus on purpose, not just asset transferCommon structures for charitable giving, including donor-advised funds, private foundations, and charitable trustsThe role advisors play in moderating sensitive family discussions around wealth, values, and responsibilityWhy early education and transparency prepare heirs to steward both capital and charitable intentions Resources: Listen to Celebrity Estates on WealthManagement.comSubscribe and listen to Celebrity Estates on Apple PodcastsSubscribe and listen to Celebrity Estates on SpotifyTrust and Estates Magazine Connect With David Lenok: david.lenok@informa.com WealthManagement.comLinkedIn: David LenokLinkedIn: InformaLinkedIn: WealthManagement Connect With Philip Richter: Website: Hollow Brook Wealth ManagementLinkedIn: Hollow Brook Wealth ManagementLinkedIn: 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 resentmentHow family meetings help define shared values, expectations and long-term intentions around moneyThe difference between equal treatment and fair treatment among children with different abilitiesWays philanthropy can unite heirs and create shared purpose beyond personal inheritanceWhy silence around estate plans often leads to confusion, conflict and costly disputes Resources: Listen to Celebrity Estates on WealthManagement.comSubscribe and listen to Celebrity Estates on Apple PodcastsSubscribe and listen to Celebrity Estates on SpotifyTrust and Estates Magazine Connect With David Lenok: david.lenok@informa.com WealthManagement.comLinkedIn: David LenokLinkedIn: InformaLinkedIn: WealthManagement Connect With Don Ford: Website: Ford + Bergner LLPLinkedIn: Ford + Bergner LLPLinkedIn: Don D. FordEmail: 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.

Stories about legacy often reveal more than the moments that made someone known. In this episode of Celebrity Estates, author and advisor Doug Woodham joins the show to explore how Jean-Michel Basquiat’s unexpected passing set off a chain of estate challenges tied to illiquid assets, sudden value changes and family decisions. Doug explains how the … Read More Read More

On this episode of the Celebrity Estates podcast, Victoria Gray, founder and principal of Insight Art & Collectibles Advisory, once again joins WealthManagement.com Senior Editor David Lenok to examine the tragic and complex estate of actor Gene Hackman, a case where timing, trust gaps and estranged heirs collided. From an $80 million fortune and a … Read More Read More

Family drama doesn’t end when the spotlight fades. On this episode of the Celebrity Estates podcast, litigator Michael Napoleone joins Wealthmanagement.com Senior Editor David Lenok to unpack the bitter dispute over actor John Amos’s estate, and what it reveals about aging, trust and family dynamics. From allegations of elder abuse and undue influence to sibling … Read More Read More

Life changes, and your estate plan should change with it. Attorney Matthew Erskine joins the Celebrity Estates podcast to explain why estate planning is never a “set it and forget it” process, but a lifelong practice that evolves alongside major milestones. Matthew walks through key life events from marriage and divorce to relocation and retirement … Read More Read More

Giorgio Armani left behind more than fashion when he passed away at 91. His $12 billion empire, absence of direct heirs and a carefully crafted foundation raise essential estate planning lessons that extend beyond celebrity headlines. Kevin Ghassomian, partner at Venable LLP, explains how Armani separated wealth from control, empowered trusted collaborators, and institutionalized his … Read More Read More

Ozzy Osbourne left behind more than music when he passed away at 76. His $250 million fortune, blended family and valuable music royalties raise pressing estate planning questions that extend far beyond celebrity headlines. Tasha Dickinson, partner at Day Pitney LLP, shares how advisors can address family conflict, use independent fiduciaries and manage complex assets … Read More Read More

When wrestling legend Hulk Hogan passed away, he left behind more than a fortune; he left a tangled family web. In this episode, David Lenok talks with Lawrence D. Mandelker, Partner at Venable LLP, to discuss the estate challenges surrounding Hogan’s $25 million legacy. Together, they explore how blended families, strained relationships, and renounced inheritances … Read More Read More

In this episode of Celebrity Estates, host David Lenok welcomes Ian Freeman, founder of The Freeman Group and a Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Advisor, for a conversation inspired by the estate of legendary boxer and entrepreneur George Foreman. From naming all five of his sons “George Edward Foreman” to building a $300 million fortune, David … Read More Read More

In this episode of Celebrity Estates, host David Lenok welcomes Oliver Pursche, senior vice president at Wealthspire Advisors, for a deep dive into the estate complexities surrounding Leonard Lauder’s famed art collection. From cubist masterpieces to staggering valuations, they explore how collectibles impact balance sheets, spark family conflict and raise nuanced estate planning questions. Here’s … Read More Read More

Victoria Gray, deputy chairman of Bonhams North America, has spent decades curating and managing some of the most iconic celebrity estate auctions. From U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein’s six homes to Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s salt and pepper shakers, she reveals how intimate artifacts transform into coveted treasures worth thousands. With a blend of … Read More Read More

Leon Spinks shocked the world in 1978 when, in just his eighth professional fight, he defeated Muhammad Ali to become the undisputed heavyweight champion, a victory still regarded as one of boxing’s greatest upsets. Yet, despite his early success and multimillion-dollar earnings, financial missteps and the long-term effects of brain injuries would take a heavy … Read More Read More

When Bob Marley passed away in 1981, he left behind a musical legacy, but no estate plan. Due to his religious beliefs, Marley didn’t create a will, and what followed was a legal firestorm: forged documents, disputed signatures and a tangled web of allegations involving his wife, attorney and accountant. In this episode, David Lenok … Read More Read More

After four decades of acting and winning multiple awards, Gene Hackman was found dead in his home at the age of 95, along with his wife and primary caretaker, Betsy Arakawa. Forensics uncovered that his wife predeceased him, leaving him to struggle with Alzheimer’s alone before passing away one week later. Join WealthManagement.com Senior Editor … Read More Read More

With Donald Trump appearing at his recent inauguration flanked by tech billionaires, the connection between presidents and the almighty dollar is more apparent than ever. However, Trump is not the only president with an interesting relationship with money. In this episode of the Celebrity Estates podcast, host David Lenok welcomes back Megan Gorman, a wealth … Read More Read More

Jim Thorpe, revered as one of the greatest athletes in American history, exemplifies how personal wishes and legal rights can conflict posthumously. Thorpe’s estranged third wife, Patricia, moved his remains to a town in Pennsylvania, which now bears his name, in a bid to create a tourist attraction, a decision contested by his sons under … Read More Read More