The legal complaint additionally claims that Danny Bennett personally benefited, along with his company, from various transactions, including the sale of memorabilia.
Tony Bennett’s two daughters have taken legal action against their brother, alleging mismanagement and non-disclosure of assets pertaining to their late father’s estate. The lawsuit, filed in New York on Wednesday by Antonia and Johanna Bennett, asserts that their brother, D’Andrea “Danny” Bennett, failed to properly account for proceeds from the recent sale of Tony Bennett’s catalogue and certain image rights to the brand development firm Iconoclast.
According to the court filing, there are concerns regarding the transparency of the transaction, as the sisters claim they have not received comprehensive details despite repeated requests. Danny Bennett, who served as the singer’s manager and oversees the family trust, has not responded to requests for comment on the lawsuit. Additionally named in the legal action are another brother, Daegal “Dae” Bennett, and Tony’s widow, Susan Benedetto.
The lawsuit contends that Danny Bennett derived personal benefits for himself and his company from various transactions, including the sale of memorabilia, conducted on behalf of Tony Bennett, the family trust, and Benedetto Arts LLC. Seeking unspecified “equitable relief,” the sisters demand a thorough accounting and inventory of the trust, along with the submission of receipts, disbursements, expenditures, and tax returns.
Despite partial disclosures by Danny Bennett and his legal representatives, the court filing alleges that the information provided has raised more questions than answers and falls short of providing a comprehensive overview of Tony’s assets and financial matters.
Tony Bennett, renowned for his interpretations of classic American songs and his iconic “I Left My Heart In San Francisco,” passed away in July at the age of 96. While the specific cause of death was not disclosed, Bennett had been battling Alzheimer’s disease since 2016. With a discography of over 70 albums and 19 Grammy wins, he left an indelible mark on the music industry.
