A romantic estate in the English countryside. A long-term partner. An estranged wife. A $29 million fortune. And yes—a court battle.
This is not the latest Netflix legal drama. It’s a real story, and it’s the kind of estate planning train-wreck we help families avoid at Norton Estate Planning & Elder Law Firm.
What Happened?
TV producer Justin Bodle—best known for bringing The Muppet Show to Britain—passed away in 2019 with a will that hadn’t been updated since 2013. Despite having two kids with a long-term partner, his will left everything to his estranged wife.
Cue: Drama.
His partner is now suing for “reasonable provision” while the wife, acting as executor, says the estate is nearly drained from taxes and legal fees. No one is happy—especially the kids.
What Went Wrong?
Let’s count the ways:
- Outdated will
- No plan for blended family dynamics
- Poor liquidity (assets tied up in property)
- No backup strategies for changing circumstances
This is why estate planning isn’t just a one-and-done situation.
Lessons You Can Use—Right Now
You don’t need a $29 million estate to learn from this:
- Update your plan after major life changes (divorce, new relationships, kids).
- Spell out your wishes clearly. Hints don’t hold up in court.
- Think beyond the will. Trusts, liquidity planning, and legal guidance matter.
- Don’t assume your executor will “figure it out.” They’re bound by law, not your intentions.
The Real Legacy Is Peace of Mind
Whether you’ve got a castle or a condo, the goal is the same: protect your people, your values, and your hard-earned assets from confusion and courtrooms.
If your estate plan is outdated—or non-existent—now’s the time to act.
👉 Request a free consultation and let’s create a plan that actually reflects your life, your love, and your legacy.
