Who Inherited Farrah Fawcett’s Estate?
Introduction:
Farrah Fawcett, the iconic American actress, model, and artist, passed away on June 25, 2009, after a long battle with cancer. Fawcett’s death left many wondering about the fate of her estate, including her valuable assets and possessions. In this article, we will explore who inherited Farrah Fawcett’s estate and shed light on the legal battles that ensued after her passing.
1. The Battle for Control:
Following Farrah Fawcett’s death, a legal battle erupted over the control of her estate. The primary contenders were her longtime partner, Ryan O’Neal, and her alma mater, the University of Texas at Austin. O’Neal claimed that Fawcett had left him her entire estate, while the university argued that she had promised them her artwork collection.
2. Ryan O’Neal’s Claim:
Ryan O’Neal, who had been in a relationship with Farrah Fawcett for over 30 years, asserted that she had bequeathed her entire estate to him. O’Neal argued that Fawcett’s will, which was drafted in 2005, named him as the sole beneficiary. However, the university challenged this claim, stating that Fawcett had changed her will in 2007 to include them.
3. The University of Texas at Austin’s Claim:
The University of Texas at Austin claimed that Farrah Fawcett had promised them her extensive art collection, which included works by renowned artists such as Andy Warhol. The university argued that Fawcett had made this commitment during her lifetime and had even allowed them to exhibit her artwork on several occasions.
4. The Redmond O’Neal Factor:
Another significant factor in the battle for Farrah Fawcett’s estate was her son, Redmond O’Neal. Redmond, who had a history of substance dependency and legal troubles, was not mentioned in Fawcett’s will. However, he became a central figure in the legal proceedings, as both O’Neal and the university sought to include or exclude him from the inheritance.
5. Settlement and Resolution:
After years of legal battles and courtroom drama, a settlement was finally reached in 2013. The University of Texas at Austin agreed to drop its claims to Fawcett’s artwork, while Ryan O’Neal was allowed to keep a portrait of Fawcett painted by Andy Warhol. The remaining assets were divided between O’Neal and Fawcett’s nephew, Greg Walls.
6. The Legacy of Farrah Fawcett:
While the legal battles over Farrah Fawcett’s estate may have dominated the headlines, it is important to remember her incredible legacy. Fawcett was a trailblazer in the entertainment industry, known for her iconic role in the television series “Charlie’s Angels” and her timeless beauty. She also used her fame to raise awareness about cancer and became an inspiration to many.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the battle for Farrah Fawcett’s estate was a highly publicized and contentious affair. Ryan O’Neal and the University of Texas at Austin fought over the control of her assets, with the resolution ultimately favoring O’Neal. However, it is essential to remember that Fawcett’s legacy extends far beyond her estate. She will forever be remembered as a talented actress, a fashion icon, and a courageous advocate for cancer awareness.
