Paris Jackson seeks reduction in Michael Jackson estate executor’s fee over 'persistent incompetence'

Paris reportedly filed a legal motion seeking to reduce the management fee associated with her late father’s estate

Paris Jackson has filed a legal motion seeking to reduce the management fee associated with her late father Michael Jackson’s estate, accusing executor John Branca of “persistent incompetence” over financial reporting.

According to TMZ, the 28-year-old singer and actress has asked Los Angeles County Superior Court to lower the fee from 15% to 10% of the estate’s gross entertainment-related income for 2023, 2024 and subsequent years until the 2026 accounting is filed.

The filing alleges that Branca repeatedly submitted late or incomplete financial statements.

It also questions proposed compensation totalling $109,219,648.27 involving the co-executors and the Ziffren law firm.

The document states: “It is unclear how Executor could calculate and distribute such an amount with any confidence and yet be unable to file complete and accurate accountings years later.”

Jackson is also seeking reimbursement for legal fees, arguing that greater financial transparency would benefit the estate.

However, a representative for Michael Jackson’s estate rejected the allegations, telling TMZ: “It is an understatement to say that this motion is completely without merit,”

The estate says Branca and fellow executor John McClain waived executor compensation when the estate was established.

According to its representative, they receive a separate, court-approved management fee for overseeing Michael Jackson’s entertainment business.

The estate also maintains that the 2023 and 2024 accountings have been filed, while the 2025 and 2026 reports are not yet due.

A spokesperson for Paris told Just Jared: “Enough of the smoke and mirrors — Paris is asking to reduce the management fee.”

The dispute follows a May ruling requiring $625,000 in previously authorised bonus payments to outside law firms to be returned to the estate.

Paris and her brothers, Prince and Bigi Jackson, are beneficiaries of their father’s estate.