A newly uncovered document has revealed that Robin Williams worked to restrict usage of any images of himself for 25 years after his death.
The Robin Williams Trust – a deed which has been filed as an exhibit during the division of his personal property – contains a detailed description of how Williams intended to be used in any publicity until 2039. The actor passed on rights to his name, signature, photograph and likeness to the Windfall Foundation, set up in his name.
What this means is that the actor won’t be digitally inserted into any films or adverts, such as what happened with the Audrey Hepburn Galaxy ad, until a pre-agreed date. It’s believed to be a new form of privacy contract based on the availability of new technologies, which Williams and his lawyers were clearly aware of and one which might affect future usage of deceased celebrities.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, the uniquely structured agreement might be related to the problems surrounding the estate of Michael Jackson. The IRS has claimed that the government is owed more than $500m in taxes from his publicity rights. This case started brewing last February, six months before Williams’s death.
This week, the actor’s family has reached a compromise in a legal battle for the rights to his belongings. His will allowed for his clothing, awards and other tangible personal property to be passed on to his children; meanwhile, his widow, Susan Schneider, has argued that she is entitled to other effects, such as his watches. Yesterday, both sides agreed to a meeting where items could be picked up, suggesting a peaceful end to the dispute.
