Kurt Iswarienko, the ex-husband of Shannen Doherty, is attempting to prevent a court ruling that would alter the trusteeship of the actress’s estate.
On Wednesday, Iswarienko submitted legal documents to the Los Angeles Superior Court, asserting that the recent death of Doherty, along with their divorce finalized in 2024, means the court “lacks jurisdiction” in this matter, as stated in the obtained court documents.
The filing contends that their divorce shouldn’t have been officially ruled on by the court because Doherty passed away on July 13, 2024. Thus, the court shouldn’t have been able to decide on the trust issue.
Additionally, Iswarienko questions whether Christopher Cortazzo, who is the current trustee of Doherty’s estate, has sufficiently demonstrated that he was authorized by the trust to bring this case forward.
Cortazzo filed documents on November 24, seeking inheritance rights related to Doherty’s estate as part of the ongoing dispute with Iswarienko.
In his complaint, Cortazzo claimed that Iswarienko had not complied with their divorce agreement, which stipulated the couple’s $1.5 million home in Dripping Springs, Texas, be listed for sale.
The estate also accused Iswarienko of not only failing to sell the property as agreed but also of withholding over $50,000 that was due.
Furthermore, the estate has reportedly taken legal action against Iswarienko for not returning assets belonging to Doherty and for not providing the funds he allegedly owed.
Doherty’s divorce agreement was signed on July 13, shortly before she passed away at the age of 53 after a lengthy battle with breast cancer that had spread.
The judge finalized their divorce on July 15, just days after Doherty’s death.
Representatives for Doherty’s estate have not yet responded to requests for comments regarding this situation.
Sources indicated that the “Beverly Hills, 90210” star was determined to end her marriage before her passing, mainly due to concerns that Iswarienko might inherit her considerable wealth.
“We knew things were serious,” remarked a friend of Doherty. “She fought so hard, and it’s tragic…Shannen didn’t want to leave this world still married. All she wanted was to fulfill her last wish: to be a divorced woman.”
