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Nearly six years after Chadwick Boseman's death, his family is taking legal action against his widow, Taylor Simone Ledward, over unresolved matters tied to the late actor's estate.
On July 17, Boseman's brothers Derrick and Kevin filed a petition in Los Angeles court seeking to remove Ledward as administrator of the estate.
In a statement released days later, they explained, "For years, our parents have sought clarity regarding matters connected to the estate of our brother, Chadwick Boseman, including his intellectual property and legacy. This action was filed on behalf of, and with the authority of, our parents, Leroy and Carolyn Boseman."
The filing alleges that despite a court order in October 2022 directing the final distribution of assets, Ledward has not closed the probate estate. The brothers claim she continues to "exert unilateral control" over Chadwick's business interests, denying their parents closure and participation in decisions.
According to records, Boseman died without a will in August 2020, just days after marrying Ledward. The court awarded her 50 percent of the estate, with his parents entitled to 25 percent each.
But Derrick and Kevin argue that assets such as SAG-AFTRA residuals, royalties, intellectual property rights, real estate, and undisclosed bank accounts remain unaccounted for. They also allege that a long-term care policy meant for their mother was never distributed.
The petition further claims Ledward took sole control of Chadwick Boseman, Inc., skipped shareholder meetings, and made business decisions without family input. They also point to the creation of The Chadwick Boseman Foundation for the Arts in 2021, saying their parents were excluded from leadership roles.
The brothers are asking the court to appoint forensic accountant Jason Rubin as administrator, require a full accounting of assets within 30 days, and block Ledward from entering new contracts involving Boseman's image or intellectual property without family consent. A hearing is scheduled for September 29.
In their statement, Derrick and Kevin emphasized, "On behalf of our parents, we are committed to ensuring that transparency, accountability, and respect guide the resolution of these matters. Our hope is that this process brings clarity, honors the Court's orders, and ensures the responsible stewardship of Chadwick's legacy."
