When Robin Williams tragically passed away in 2014 the actor left behind an estate that was worth $100 million. A trust agreement that was recently made public contains a clause that stipulates Robin William’s likeness will not be used to make money for 25 years after his death. This restriction prevents his name, photograph, voice or signature from being used in any films, advertisements, or endorsements. Hollywood celebrities are becoming increasingly conscientious about how their image will be used after they die. Because of advancements in digital technology filmmakers are now able to find creative ways to use a deceased person’s voice or image. It will become more important in the future for high profile celebrities to consider how their likeness will be used when creating an estate plan. Planning ahead can give a person more control over how their likeness will be used.
See Natalie Robehmed, Why Robin Williams Won’t Be Making Millions Beyond The Grave, Forbes, October 27, 2015.
Special thanks to Jim Hillhouse for bringing this article to my attention.
