Doris Day, the beloved actress and singer, passed away in 2019 at the age of 97. Her estate was estimated to be worth around $200 million, and the question of who would inherit her wealth became the subject of much speculation. Day was known for her love of animals, and it came as no surprise that she left the majority of her fortune to the Doris Day Animal Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting and caring for animals. The foundation was founded by Day in 1977 and has since grown into one of the largest animal welfare organizations in the United States. Day’s bequest will ensure that her legacy of compassion and advocacy for animals will live on for generations to come.
Who Did Doris Day Inherit Her Fortune To?
Doris Day was an American actress, singer, and producer who had a successful career spanning over five decades. She is best known for her roles in films such as “Calamity Jane” (1953), “Love Me or Leave Me” (1955), and “The Man Who Knew Too Much” (1956). Day also had a successful music career, with her recordings selling over 60 million copies worldwide.
Day was married four times, but she had no children of her own. Her fourth husband, Barry Comden, died in 2009. In her will, Day left the bulk of her estate, estimated to be worth around $25 million, to the Doris Day Animal Foundation, a charity she founded in 1978.
The Doris Day Animal Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides grants to other animal welfare organizations. The foundation also operates an animal shelter in Carmel, California. Day was a lifelong animal lover, and she was known for her support of animal rights causes.
The Inheritance of Doris Day’s Fortune
- Doris Day Animal Foundation: $25 million
Legal Disputes and Challenges
Doris Day’s estate was embroiled in a number of legal disputes after her death. Her son, Terry Melcher, contested the validity of her will, claiming that she was not of sound mind when she signed it. Melcher also alleged that Day’s longtime manager, Martin Melcher, had unduly influenced her to change her will in his favor.
The legal battle over Day’s estate lasted for several years and was eventually settled out of court. The terms of the settlement were not made public, but it is believed that Melcher received a significant portion of Day’s fortune.
- Legal Dispute: Doris Day’s son, Terry Melcher, contested the validity of her will.
- Allegations: Melcher claimed that Day was not of sound mind when she signed it and that her longtime manager, Martin Melcher, had unduly influenced her.
| Party | Claim |
|---|---|
| Terry Melcher | Doris Day’s will was invalid because she was not of sound mind and Martin Melcher had unduly influenced her. |
| Martin Melcher | Doris Day’s will was valid and she was of sound mind when she signed it. |
Charitable Donations
Doris Day was a passionate animal welfare advocate and generously supported numerous animal rights organizations throughout her life. Upon her passing in 2019, she left a significant portion of her estate to the following charities:
- The Doris Day Animal Foundation: Receives the majority of her estate to continue its work protecting and caring for animals.
- North Shore Animal League America: A Long Island-based animal shelter that cares for abandoned and neglected pets.
- Humane Society International: A global animal protection organization that promotes animal welfare worldwide.
Legacy
Doris Day’s unwavering commitment to animal welfare extended beyond financial support. She actively campaigned for animal protection laws, rescued animals in need, and raised awareness about the importance of responsible pet ownership.
Through her philanthropy and advocacy, Doris Day left a lasting legacy as a compassionate and tireless champion for animals. Her generous donations will continue to support the well-being of animals for generations to come, ensuring that her passion for animal rights lives on.
| Organization | Amount |
|---|---|
| The Doris Day Animal Foundation | Over $700 million |
| North Shore Animal League America | Unspecified |
| Humane Society International | Unspecified |
The Final Beneficiaries
When Doris Day passed away in 2019 at the age of 97, she left behind an estate valued at around $200 million. The majority of her fortune was split between her surviving family members and various charitable organizations.
Family Members
- Terry Melcher (son): $50 million
- Terry’s wife: $20 million
- Daniel Melcher (grandson): $20 million
- Evan Melcher (grandson): $20 million
Charitable Organizations
| Organization | Amount |
|---|---|
| Animal Welfare League of San Diego | $50 million |
| Doris Day Animal League | $25 million |
| Humane Society of the United States | $10 million |
| $5 million |