Back in the 1980s and 1990s, you couldn’t turn on the radio without hearing a song by INXS. The band's lead singer, Michael Hutchence, was a bona fide rock star who captivated audiences with his charisma and talent. Tragically, Hutchence died in November 1997 in his native Australia, leaving behind a wife and a one-year-old daughter, as well as an estate worth roughly $27 million. The question looms: where is this fortune? His family has never seen a dime of it, making it one of the biggest mysteries in rock and roll history. A recent Australian documentary and leaked documents known as the Paradise Papers are shedding some light on what has happened to Michael Hutchence's multi-million dollar legacy.
The 20th anniversary of Hutchence's death falls on November 22nd. A controversial special titled Michael Hutchence: The Last Rockstar aired recently, stirring debate among fans and family alike. Both INXS band members and Hutchence's family have criticized the documentary. Hutchence's brother, Rhett, is now using this renewed attention to allege that his brother's former manager, Colin Diamond, has misappropriated funds from the estate.
Diamond allegedly established an offshore company called Helipad Plain in Mauritius just before the 20th anniversary of Hutchence's death. This company claims to hold the rights to the late rock star's "sound recordings, images, films, and related material." The complexity of Hutchence's financial affairs and the controversies surrounding his estate continue to spark intrigue and discussion among fans and the media.
Michael Hutchence: Life and Legacy
Michael Hutchence was born on January 22, 1960, in Sydney, Australia. He rose to fame as the lead singer of INXS, a band that dominated the charts throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Hutchence was known for his captivating stage presence, unique voice, and songwriting prowess. Tragically, his life ended prematurely, but his music continues to resonate with fans around the world.
| Personal Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Michael Kelland Hutchence |
| Date of Birth | January 22, 1960 |
| Date of Death | November 22, 1997 |
| Profession | Musician, Singer, Songwriter |
| Band | INXS |
| Net Worth at Death | Approximately $27 million |
| Survived By | Wife, One-year-old daughter |
The Controversy Surrounding His Estate
Despite his fame and fortune, Hutchence's death sparked a complex and contentious legal battle over his estate. His family has long claimed that they have not received any of the wealth he left behind. Following his passing, a trust called Chardonnay Investments was established to manage his rights and royalties, with his father named as the beneficiary. However, recent revelations from the Paradise Papers suggest that Colin Diamond has positioned himself as the sole owner of these rights, claiming Hutchence entrusted him with them.
This ongoing feud has led to significant tension within Hutchence's family. His brother Rhett alleges that Diamond confiscated all of Hutchence's possessions after his death, leaving the family with only a few personal items, including the belt Hutchence used to take his own life. Rhett's accusations raise questions about the integrity of Diamond's management of Hutchence's legacy and the true intentions behind his actions.
As this story continues to unfold, it serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of fame, fortune, and family loyalty. The legacy of Michael Hutchence remains not only in his music but also in the ongoing struggle for his family's rightful inheritance.
