Karl Lagerfeld's cat is locked in inheritance battle (2024)

Karl Lagerfeld's cat is locked in inheritance battle (1)

The Wealth Advisor Contributor

June 9, 2020

WhenKarl Lagerfeld died in 2019, rumours circulated that his Birman cat, Choupette, was to inherit his $270 million (approx.) fortune.

A year on and the Chanel creative director's estate has yet to be finalised butdetails have emergedthat while Choupette is an heir, she isn't the only one set to inherit a share of his sizeable fortune, and the seven beneficiaries are struggling to access Lagerfeld's assets — that includes property in Paris and Monaco, a bookstore and designer furniture.

Enter: Lucien Frydlender, 87, Lagerfeld's "trusted" accountant for many decades. Tasked with managing the creative director's finances, Frydlender is responsible for distributing the estate according to the will that was drafted by Lagerfeld.

However, according to an investigation by French publicationLe Parisienfeatured inVoicimagazine, Frydlender has not been taking calls from the beneficiaries, and "after closing his office in September 2019, the former collaborator of Karl Lagerfeld has simply disappeared from radar," raising questions for those involved.

Frydlender's wife has come out defending her husband assuring there's nothing suspicious going and he is not "on an island paradise with a hidden treasure." Instead, she reports he is "very sick".

When Choupette will get her inheritance, and what that will look like, is anyone's guess, but over a year since the death of her owner, Lagerfeld, Chanel and,of course, Choupette fans have been concerned for the pet, that made over $4 million in 2015.

"People came by the store and said how sad they were, and half of it was about Choupette," Caroline Lebar, head of communications for the Karl Lagerfeld brand, admits. "They'd say, 'If she's alone, I'll take her home.'"

But Ms. Lebar promises Choupette is in safe hands, living in Paris with Lagerfeld's former housekeeper Françoise Caçote. "She is in good shape, and is surrounded by love."

The fortunate cat has starred in magazine spreads, had makeup lines named in her honour and is the inspiration for the novelty novelChoupette: The Private Life of a High-Flying Fashion Cat. She has her very own agent and according toThe New York Times,at the height of her fame she had two minders, a bodyguard, a doctor and a chef.

This article originally appeared on nine.com.au.

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Karl Lagerfeld's cat is locked in inheritance battle (2024)

FAQs

What happens when Karl Lagerfeld cat dies? ›

The cat went viral thanks for the famous Choupette's Diary blog and Instagram page. But after Karl's death, the updates mysteriously stopped, sparking a #WheresChoupette campaign. But it turns out the kitty is alive and well and continuing to live her very best life, despite her loss.

Did Karl Lagerfeld's cat inherit millions? ›

The former creative director at Chanel, Lagerfeld acquired Choupette from French model Baptiste Giabiconi, who incidentally is set to inherit 30 percent of Lagerfeld's several hundred million euros. She soon had 136,000 Instagram followers and her own agent, Lucas Bérullier.

Did Karl Lagerfeld leave his fortune to his cat? ›

Lagerfeld, who was thought to be worth £240m, wrote his cat into his will in 2015. It has been reported that she was due to receive £1.3m. She is also thought to have earned her own money from modelling.

Is Karl Lagerfeld's cat alive? ›

NEW YORK -- The late Karl Lagerfeld's fluffy pampered cat, Choupette, is a star in her own right — and still very much alive.

Who left their inheritance to their cat? ›

Tommaso is a black cat who lives in Italy and inherited $13 million. The cat was a stray that found its way into the home of Maria Assunta, a property magnate in Italy. When Assunta died at the age of 94, she willed her fortune to either the cat or an animal welfare charity that would look after it.

Where is Karl Lagerfeld's cat now? ›

She still lives a lavish life in Paris.

The 11-year-old Burmese currently lives in Paris and is now owned by Lagerfeld's former housekeeper, Françoise Caçot, who has since dropped her nanny role to care for the feline full-time.

How much did Karl Lagerfeld cat inherit? ›

Karl Lagerfeld's cat, Choupette, is reportedly set to inherit some of the Chanel designer's estimated $195 million fortune. Chanel confirmed on Tuesday that Lagerfeld, who had been the fashion house's creative director since 1983, had died at the age of 85 after a short illness.

Who kept Karl Lagerfeld cat? ›

At 10 weeks or so, she was given to Baptiste Giabiconi, one of Lagerfeld's model friends in Paris. It was Giabiconi who named her Choupette, a nickname in French for “cute girl.” Giabiconi asked Lagerfeld to care for the cat for two weeks while he was on holiday.

Who owns the richest cat in the world? ›

The world's richest cat is Nala Cat, who has a line of premium cat food under her name, and is worth $100 million. The Siamese and Tabby-mix feline is owned by Shannon Ellis and Pookie Methachittiphan and has over 4.4 million followers on Instagram alone.

Who inherited Karl Lagerfeld estate? ›

Jamison Kroenig, Brad Kroenig and Hudson Kroenig. It's was reported in 2020 that there are seven beneficiaries to Lagerfeld's estate. They are model Jake Davis, Lebar, Giabiconi, Jondeau, Caçote and Kroenig and his son Hudson, who is Lagerfeld's godson.

What is the richest pet in the world? ›

It's the Netflix doco that has tongues wagging. The tale of the world's so-called richest pet, German shepherd Gunther VI, has fascinated viewers in the series Gunther's Millions. As it happens, there are plenty of other cashed-up cats and canines living lavish lives.

How old was Karl Lagerfeld when he died? ›

Karl Lagerfeld, the iconic Chanel fashion designer, has died at age 85. He passed away after a short illness, a statement given to Reuters said.

What is the oldest cat that died? ›

Creme Puff (August 3, 1967 – August 6, 2005) was a mixed Tabby domestic cat, owned by Jake Perry of Austin, Texas, US. She was the oldest cat ever recorded, according to the 2010 edition of Guinness World Records, when she died aged 38 years and 3 days.

Where is Karl Lagerfeld buried? ›

Who is the richest cat in the world? ›

Introducing Nala Cat, the richest cat in the world. According to Cats.com, the feline has a net worth of $100 million. (Just let that sink in.) Most of Nala Cat's income stems from her successful Instagram page, where she boasts 4.4 million—and counting—followers.

Can I leave my inheritance to my cat? ›

Since pets are seen as property under the law, they're a part of your estate, just like any other property you own. Because of this, you can use your will to leave them as a gift to someone, just like you would with any other property.

Do cats grieve when their owner dies? ›

When a cat loses a companion, whether animal or human, she most certainly grieves and reacts to the changes in her life. Cats alter their behavior when they mourn much like people do: They may become depressed and listless. They may have a decreased appetite and decline to play.

Do cats care if their sibling dies? ›

Yes, cats do experience grief at the loss of a another household pet, especially if they had a close-knit bond. Cats are individuals, and just like humans, their process for coping with loss will vary. Pay attention and keep an eye-out for behavioral changes.

How much is Karl Lagerfeld's net worth? ›

Iconic German fashion designer and photographer Karl Lagerfeld, who passed away in February 2019 at the age of 85, had a net worth of $300 million.

Who took over Chanel after Karl Lagerfeld? ›

A year later: Virginie Viard at Chanel

After Karl's death was confirmed by Chanel, among others, it was also immediately announced that Virginie Viard would take on the creative leadership of Chanel.

Who is the new Karl Lagerfeld? ›

Jared Leto is set to star as Karl Lagerfeld in a new biopic about the late fashion designer, WWD and Variety report.

What is the richest cat alive? ›

Introducing Nala Cat, the richest cat in the world. According to Cats.com, the feline has a net worth of $100 million. (Just let that sink in.) Most of Nala Cat's income stems from her successful Instagram page, where she boasts 4.4 million—and counting—followers.

What cat inherited $13 million dollars? ›

A 4-year-old stray cat that was rescued from the streets of Rome has inherited a $13 million fortune from its owner, the wealthy widow of an Italian property tycoon. Maria Assunta left the fortune to her beloved kitty Tommaso when she died two weeks ago at the age of 94.

Who did Karl Lagerfeld give his money to? ›

The seven include Sebastien Jondeau, Lagerfeld's famously handsome bodyguard, who was once a model; Baptiste Giabiconi, one of Lagerfeld's favourite models; Caroline Lebar, one of Lagerfeld's longest serving employees, who worked on his public relations team; Francoise Cacote, his housekeeper and the personal maid of ...

Who was in the cat suit at Met Gala 2023? ›

There was only one winner of the Met Gala red carpet last night: a gargantuan cat costume with whiskers, plush paws and hyper-real blue eyes, which had Jared Leto inside it.

Who was the cat at Met Gala 2023? ›

As stars began taking to the carpet, one mystery guest caught everyone's eye – because they were disguised in a large, fluffy cat costume. Inside the mascot-esque outfit was Jared Leto, known for his outrageous Met Gala costumes (like that time in 2019 when he carried a severed head on the carpet).

Did Karl Lagerfeld save Chanel? ›

Lagerfeld stepped into Chanel's headquarters in 1983 and basically saved the brand as a fashion house, because after Chanel's death the company had focused on producing fragrances, earned most of the profits, and selling accessories.

Who owns the richest dog? ›

Meet Gunther VI: The German Shepherd With A $400+ Million Net Worth. Countess Korlotta Liebenstein had no children or close relatives, so she left her fortune to her dog, Gunther III. When Gunther III passed away, the fortune was passed on to his descendants. Now, Gunther VI is now the richest dog in the world.

How rich is Taylor Swift's cat? ›

"With a whopping $97 million net worth, Olivia has found success outside of the world of Instagram influencing. The Scottish Fold earned her fortune starring alongside her owner in several music videos, has crafted her own merchandise line, and has had cameos in many big-budget ads…"

How many cats does Taylor Swift have? ›

Tay-Tay has three of 'em: two Scottish folds named Meredith Grey and Olivia Benson and a Ragdoll named Benjamin Button.

Who are Karl Lagerfeld heirs? ›

Among those said to inherit considerable portions of the designer's fortune: his faithful public-relations assistant Caroline Lebar; the model Brad Kroenig and his towheaded 12-year-old son, Hudson, Lagerfeld's godson, whose toddles down the runway in Chanel tweed fans will never forget; Françoise Caçote, “governess” ...

Who is Karl Lagerfeld child? ›

But while Lagerfeld didn't actually have any biological children, he did have a godson: 11-year-old Hudson Kroenig.

What religion was Karl Lagerfeld? ›

His family belonged to the Old Catholic Church. When Lagerfeld's mother met his father, she was a lingerie saleswoman from Berlin. His parents married in 1930.

What is the No 1 richest dog? ›

1. Gunther VI. A german shepherd is the world's wealthiest pet. Its $500 million net worth makes it the richest pet in the world and the owner is the Italian media business organisation Gunther Corporation.

What dog breed is a billionaire? ›

From millions in real estate to jet-setting around the globe, the world's richest dog is rolling in the dough. Gunther VI is a German Shepard with a net worth of $400 million.

What dog is the richest man? ›

Gunther VI is said to be the world's richest dog, with a wealth that goes beyond the 400-million-dollar mark.

How much weight did Karl Lagerfeld lose? ›

Karl Lagerfeld, the designer and fashion icon, died in Paris on Tuesday at 85 years old. After losing 91 pounds in 13 months, Lagerfeld wrote a book with his dietitian titled "The Karl Lagerfeld Diet." The book includes many French recipes and reveals his distaste for exercise.

Who was Karl Lagerfeld last partner? ›

Jacques de Bascher (8 July 1951 – 3 September 1989) was a French dandy, member of the jet set, and Karl Lagerfeld's companion from 1971 until his death, as well as Yves Saint Laurent's lover in 1973.

Did Karl Lagerfeld have a pet? ›

Choupette (born 15 August 2011) is a blue-cream tortie Birman cat who was the pet of German fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld from around Christmas 2011, until Lagerfeld's death on 19 February 2019 at the age of 85.

What is the oldest dog alive? ›

Now, he has been utterly dethroned. Bobi, at the age of 30 years and 268 days, has been crowned the world's oldest living dog – and the oldest dog to ever live – by Guinness World Records (GWR). Bobi is very sociable and enjoys napping and eating human food.

What is world's oldest dog? ›

KSNF/KODE — At 30 years and 286 days old, a Portuguese dog named “Bobi” was recently crowned the world's oldest dog ever, breaking an almost century-old record.

What's the oldest dogs can live? ›

The median lifespan of dogs is thought to be 10-13 years, but the figure varies significantly depending on the breed and a number of other factors. The oldest dog who ever lived, an Australian cattle dog called Bluey, survived to an age of 29.5.

Why is Karl Lagerfeld expensive? ›

The Price Point. Karl Lagerfeld Paris was created to make aspirational products more accessible and the price point reflects this. While the prices don't come anywhere close to the likes of Chanel, most garments are priced above high-street rates.

What race is Karl Lagerfeld? ›

The German designer is best known for his work as the creative director of the storied French fashion house Chanel, a post he held from 1983 until his death in February 2019.

What ethnicity was Karl Lagerfeld? ›

The German designer was, in a word, prolific.

What cat is $1000? ›

Most Expensive Cat Breeds In The World Bengal $1,000 – $10,000 These tiger cats are one of the more popular breeds in these days. Bengal cats have a beautiful coat with a striped pattern, making their coats appear like those of tigers.

What killed grumpy cat? ›

Grumpy Cat Has Died

In a message posted online early this morning, Grumpy Cat's owners announced her passing. “Grumpy Cat encountered complications from a recent urinary tract infection that unfortunately became too tough for her to overcome,” they wrote.

Who has 100 cats? ›

When Linda Morgan fostered her first cat, she never imagined that over the next four years, 100 cats and kittens would come into her life through the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society's foster program. From the most fearful felines to litters of playful kittens, Linda has welcomed them all.

Who took over Chanel after Karl Lagerfeld died? ›

A year later: Virginie Viard at Chanel

After Karl's death was confirmed by Chanel, among others, it was also immediately announced that Virginie Viard would take on the creative leadership of Chanel.

What happens with dead cats? ›

You will need to bring your pet to the clinic but then they can arrange for disposal. Many pet owners prefer to have their pet cremated and have the ashes returned to them. If you do this, you can then keep the ashes or, if you wish, scatter them in a place that is special to you both.

What do cats do when a cat dies? ›

When a cat loses a companion, whether animal or human, she most certainly grieves and reacts to the changes in her life. Cats alter their behavior when they mourn much like people do: They may become depressed and listless. They may have a decreased appetite and decline to play.

Who is the cat at Met Gala 2023? ›

Jared Leto loves to put together jaw-dropping looks at the annual Met Gala, and this year is no different. The Thirty Seconds to Mars frontman arrived to the iconic red carpet on Monday (May 1) dressed as Karl Lagerfeld's beloved cat Choupette in a huge, fluffy costume.

What was Karl Lagerfeld white cat name? ›

Choupette (born 15 August 2011) is a blue-cream tortie Birman cat who was the pet of German fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld from around Christmas 2011, until Lagerfeld's death on 19 February 2019 at the age of 85.

Who runs House of Chanel now? ›

The Wertheimer family fortune dates back to 1920s Paris when Pierre Wertheimer funded designer Coco Chanel. His grandsons, brothers Alain and Gerard Wertheimer, control Chanel today. The brothers have a combined net worth of around $98 billion.

Can I bury my cat in my yard? ›

If your pet has had diseases such as the common and very highly contagious Parvovirus, the organisms can stay in the soil for up to nine years. Burying your pet in the backyard would pose a health risk for yourself, family members and other animals in the household when they get in contact with the ground.

Do cats know when a cat dies? ›

While no-one will ever know if a cat understands death, they certainly know that a fellow housemate is missing and that something has changed in the house. The owner's distress at the loss of a pet may also be communicated to the cat, adding to the confusion it may be feeling.

Can I bury my cat in the garden? ›

Some people prefer to take their cat home to bury in the garden. There is no formal planning required for burying a cat at the home it lived in as long as you own the land and the vet has said that there is no risk to other animals or people.

Does the Bible say cats go to heaven? ›

While the Bible is very specific about the requirements for human salvation, it says nothing about salvation for animals.

Will I see my cat in heaven? ›

The pets that we had to say goodbye to are alive in heaven right now in their spiritual bodies and we will see them again if we accept Jesus as our Savior. Your Pet Is Not Gone Forever.

How do you know if your deceased pet is with you? ›

So if you notice one or more of these signs, keep in mind that your pet might not be as far away as you think.
  • Familiar Sounds. ...
  • Familiar Smells. ...
  • Memories Out of the Blue. ...
  • Songs. ...
  • Physical Feelings. ...
  • Change in Temperature. ...
  • Interacting with Other Pets. ...
  • Behavior of Other Animals.
Jun 8, 2022

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