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Prince Estate Legal Battles Rage On
22 Apr
Summary
- Prince's estate has faced complex legal battles for years post-death.
- Heirs and advisors are locked in disputes over estate control.
- Ongoing litigation impacts music releases and documentaries.
Ten years after his death, the estate of the iconic artist Prince, who passed away without a will, remains entangled in protracted legal disputes. The initial challenge involved identifying heirs, ultimately settling on his siblings. Comerica Bank & Trust was appointed administrator during the probate litigation.
Three siblings later sold their shares to Primary Wave, a major player in the industry. The remaining heirs allied with advisors L. Londell McMillan and Charles Spicer. This division led to distinct management groups: Primary Wave through Prince Oat Holdings LLC and the McMillan-Spicer group through Prince Legacy LLC.
In 2024, McMillan and Spicer sued heirs Sharon and Norrine Nelson for attempting to seize control of Prince Legacy, arguing they lacked the necessary experience. A judge ruled in favor of McMillan and Spicer, upholding their broad powers.
Further complications arose when Primary Wave and Prince Legacy successfully lobbied Netflix to cancel a documentary by Ezra Edelman due to alleged inaccuracies. Netflix announced a replacement, sanctioned by the estate, which Edelman criticized.
Last year, Apollonia, a former Prince protegee, sued the estate, claiming it aggressively sought to cancel her trademark registrations. The estate countered that it was revoking trademarks secured during a 'chaotic period' after Prince's death. This case concluded with a confidential settlement last month.
