Katy Perry to Recover $1.8 Million in Montecito Mansion Lawsuit

A judge has ordered an 86-year-old businessman to pay Katy Perry $1.8 million. The ruling is part of a long-running legal dispute over a $15 million Montecito property. The decision was issued in a Los Angeles court this week.

The payment covers damages Perry suffered after the seller backed out of their deal. According to Reuters, the case involved a disputed 2020 real estate contract.

Judge Finds Middle Ground in Damages Dispute

Perry had initially sought nearly $4.7 million in compensation from Carl Westcott. Westcott is the father-in-law of reality TV star Kameron Westcott. He argued his liability should be limited to just $260,000.

Judge Joseph Lipner proposed a different calculation. He awarded $2.8 million for lost rental income during the four-year legal fight. He also added $260,000 for property repairs.

The final amount was then reduced by $1 million. The judge cited Perry’s ability to invest her funds elsewhere. This brought the total award to the final $1.8 million figure.

Property Dispute Followed High-Profile Trial

The conflict began just weeks after Westcott signed the sales contract in July 2020. Westcott’s legal team claimed he lacked mental capacity to agree to the sale. They cited a major back surgery and strong pain medication.

Perry’s team presented evidence contradicting these claims. They showed text messages and emails demonstrating Westcott’s active engagement. He even negotiated with another celebrity buyer, Maria Shriver, before choosing Perry’s offer.

The judge ultimately ruled in Perry’s favor last year. He found Westcott understood the deal he was making. Perry finally took possession of the estate in April 2024.

The resolution of this high-stakes real estate battle underscores the binding nature of contractual agreements. Katy Perry’s legal victory sets a notable precedent for celebrity property disputes.

Thought you’d like to know

What was the main reason for the legal dispute?

Carl Westcott tried to cancel the $15 million home sale after signing the contract. He claimed he was not mentally competent due to surgery and medication. The court rejected this argument after reviewing evidence.

How long did the legal process take?

The entire case spanned nearly four years from the initial 2020 agreement. Perry finally took control of the property in April 2024. The damages phase was the final part of the litigation.

What does the $1.8 million award cover?

The money compensates for lost rental income and necessary property repairs. The judge calculated specific financial losses Perry incurred. The final amount was less than half of what she originally sought.

Did Katy Perry already purchase the property?

Yes, she placed $9 million in escrow and took possession in 2024. The remaining $6 million of the purchase price was held back. The property transfer occurred after she won the initial trial.

What condition was the property in during the lawsuit?

Perry’s team claimed it suffered water damage and a fallen tree. Westcott’s lawyer argued the home was in good enough condition to rent to other celebrities. The court considered repair estimates in its ruling.