Pop star Katy Perry is scheduled to testify in court this month as part of a contentious legal battle involving a $15 million real estate transaction with 84-year-old Carl Westcott, the founder of 1-800-FLOWERS.
The case centers on Perry’s claims for approximately $6 million in damages related to property repairs and lost rental income.
The dispute began in July 2020 when Perry and her fiancé, Orlando Bloom, purchased Westcott’s mansion for $15 million.
Shortly after the transaction, Westcott sought to annul the sale, arguing that he was mentally incapacitated at the time of the sale.
Judge Joseph Lipner ruled in favor of Perry, determining that Westcott was of sound mind based on witness testimony and medical reports.
Despite the court’s decision, Perry is now pursuing additional claims for $6 million, citing expenses and lost income associated with the property.
Westcott, who is suffering from Huntington’s disease and is currently receiving hospice care, and his family are set to contest these claims in court.
Westcott’s family, including Chart Westcott and Court Westcott (married to former Real Housewives of Dallas star Kameron Westcott), will be present during the proceedings.
A close friend of the Westcott family has publicly criticized Perry’s actions, accusing her of exploiting a vulnerable elderly individual and showing a lack of empathy.
The family friend expressed frustration, stating:
“It’s clearly apparent that she’s trying to squeeze every last dollar out of Carl’s family without any shred of empathy at the expense of an elderly man’s legacy.”
Perry’s court appearance had been delayed as she engaged 25 construction experts to assess the property’s condition.
However, Judge Lipner has mandated her presence, stating:
“As I sit right here this minute, I definitely expect Ms. Perry to be a witness.”
This legal confrontation continues to unfold as Perry, 39, prepares to defend her claims and navigate the complex issues surrounding the disputed real estate transaction.
