Allegations of Mishandling and Lack of Transparency Prompt Legal Action
A lawsuit filed this week by Antonia and Johanna Bennett, daughters of the late singer Tony Bennett, accuses their brother D’Andrea “Danny” Bennett of mismanagement and lack of transparency in his role as trustee of their father’s estate.
Sale of Music Assets and Unclear Accounting
The lawsuit centers on the sale of Tony Bennett’s music catalog and certain image rights to brand development firm Iconoclast earlier this year. The sisters claim they haven’t received a complete accounting of the deal and haven’t been provided with crucial details despite repeated requests. The court filing states, “it remains unclear what music assets (and other property) were or were not sold as part of the deal.”
Danny Bennett Unresponsive to Inquiry, Other Family Members Named
Efforts to reach Danny Bennett, who served as Tony Bennett’s manager and currently manages the family trust, for comment regarding the lawsuit were unsuccessful. The lawsuit also names Daegal “Dae” Bennett, another brother, and Tony Bennett’s widow, Susan Benedetto.
Suspected Self-Dealing and Demands for Full Disclosure
The lawsuit further alleges that Danny Bennett used his position for personal gain, directing benefits towards himself and his company through transactions involving memorabilia sales on behalf of the estate. The sisters are seeking unspecified “equitable relief,” a comprehensive accounting of the trust’s assets, and a complete inventory. They also demand access to financial records including receipts, disbursements, expenditures, and tax returns.
Lack of Cooperation and Information Deepen Concerns
The court filing criticizes the information provided by Danny Bennett and his legal counsel, stating that “the information provided raises more questions than answers and fails to provide anything close to an accounting of Tony’s assets and financial affairs.”
Legendary Singer’s Legacy Overshadowed by Legal Dispute
Tony Bennett, a musical icon known for his renditions of American classics and his own signature song “I Left My Heart In San Francisco,” passed away in July 2023 at the age of 96. He had been battling Alzheimer’s disease since 2016. His legacy of 19 Grammy awards and over 70 albums is now overshadowed by this family dispute over the handling of his estate.
