The legal saga involving the late Tony Bennett’s family has taken a new turn as his daughters, Antonia and Johanna Bennett, have commenced legal action against their brother. They allege he has mishandled the iconic singer’s estate which he is entrusted with overseeing.
Filed in New York on Wednesday, the legal documents accuse D’Andrea “Danny” Bennett of failing to adequately disclose components of their father’s estate.
The lawsuit also implicates another sibling, Daegal “Dae” Bennett, and the late singer’s widow, Susan Benedetto.
The claim states that Danny Bennett has not provided full details regarding the financial transactions, particularly from this year’s sales of the “I Left My Heart In San Francisco” song catalog.
The court documents express uncertainty about the full scope of assets involved in the recent transaction, reflecting a lack of information provided to Antonia and Johanna despite their repeated requests for transparency.
The plaintiffs further allege their brother has used his position to benefit personally, acquiring financial gains from merchandise sales and memorabilia via Tony Bennett’s trust and Benedetto Arts LLC.
Aiming for a detailed inventory and “equitable relief,” Antonia and Johanna are pushing for a comprehensive accounting of their father’s finances and assets.
The provided partial information, as the court filing argues, has raised more questions than answers without delivering an acceptable level of detail regarding Tony Bennett’s asset management.
Requests for comment have been sent to the late singer’s estate and legal representation for Danny Bennett by The Post.
The family of the legendary pop, jazz, and big-band singer announced his demise on July 21, 2023, at age 96, in New York City.
The artist’s family had previously disclosed his 2016 diagnosis with Alzheimer’s disease in February 2021.
Tony Bennett gracefully accepted his condition, once stating, “Life is a gift, even with Alzheimer’s.”
He subsequently retired from performing live in late 2021, with his son Danny Bennett stating that the decision was influenced by medical advice.
Danny Bennett, who managed his father’s career for four decades, emphasized that while Tony Bennett remained an adept performer, the rigors of travel had become too taxing.
With Post wires
FAQs about Tony Bennett’s Estate Dispute
Who is involved in the lawsuit over Tony Bennett’s estate?
The lawsuit involves Tony Bennett’s daughters, Antonia and Johanna Bennett, against their brother, D’Andrea “Danny” Bennett. Another brother, Daegal “Dae” Bennett, and Bennett’s widow, Susan Benedetto, are also named in the lawsuit.
What do Antonia and Johanna Bennett allege?
They allege that their brother Danny Bennett has failed to disclose some of their father’s assets and has not adequately accounted for the proceeds from the sales of their father’s music catalog.
What are the daughters seeking through the lawsuit?
The daughters are seeking unspecified “equitable relief” and a detailed accounting of the trust’s inventory and Tony Bennett’s financial affairs.
Has there been any response from Danny Bennett or the estate?
At the time of the report, The Post had reached out for comments, but none have been provided in this context.
When did Tony Bennett pass away?
Tony Bennett passed away on July 21, 2023, at the age of 96 in New York City.