Chadwick Boseman’s estate has become the focus of a legal dispute as his brothers, Kevin and Derrick Boseman, have petitioned a Los Angeles court to remove the late actor’s widow, Taylor Simone Ledward, as administrator. The brothers allege that Ledward, 35, has failed to distribute assets and continues to exercise sole control over Boseman’s estate almost six years after his death.
Boseman, who died in August 2020 at the age of 43 following a private four-year battle with colon cancer, left no will. The Black Panther star, whose portrayal of King T’Challa became a defining moment for Marvel and global cinema, also received acclaim for his performances in 42, Marshall, Da 5 Bloods, and Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, the latter earning him a posthumous Academy Award nomination. His legacy has continued through the Marvel Cinematic Universe, including Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, which honored him without recasting his role.
According to court documents obtained by People, Kevin and Derrick claim that Ledward has “exerted unilateral control” over Boseman’s estate, denying their parents, Leroy and Carolyn Boseman, participation in decision-making. The parents are reportedly entitled to 25 percent of the estate, while Taylor is entitled to 50 percent due to the couple’s marriage shortly before Boseman’s passing.
The petition highlights a 2022 court “Final Order” directing Taylor to distribute certain assets, including a $40,000 long-term care policy to Carolyn. Kevin and Derrick allege that the policy has not been delivered and that additional assets - such as royalties, residuals, image and intellectual property rights, real property, and a previously undisclosed bank account - have not been accounted for. They claim that Taylor continues to profit from Boseman’s fame and has blocked the family from business opportunities that might benefit their elderly parents.
The brothers are requesting that the court appoint professional fiduciary and forensic accountant Jason Rubin to manage the estate in place of Ledward. The filing is currently pending, and no ruling has been made.
