International pop sensation Katy Perry has ignited significant controversy by pursuing nearly $5 million in damages from an 85-year-old disabled military veteran, escalating a prolonged legal confrontation over a luxury Montecito property.
The Property Deal That Started It All
In July 2020, Carl Westcott, a former army serviceman, sold his $15 million estate to Katy Perry and her former partner Orlando Bloom. The celebrity couple expressed their enthusiasm in a personal letter, mentioning they were expecting a child and believed the property would be an ideal place for their family.
Days after finalizing the agreement, Westcott attempted to withdraw from the sale. He contended that he had signed the contract while recovering from major back surgery and was under the influence of strong medication, which impaired his judgment and understanding of the deal's implications.
Legal Battle Intensifies
By December 2023, a California judge ruled against Westcott's claims, stating there was insufficient evidence to prove he lacked the mental capacity to consent to the property transaction. The court documents revealed that Perry's legal team highlighted an alternative offer from Maria Shriver, the former wife of actor Arnold Schwarzenegger.
As the dispute continued, Perry countersued for substantial financial compensation. Her claims included $3.25 million for alleged rental losses, $2.2 million for property repairs, and $3 million in legal fees, bringing the total demand to nearly $5 million.
Human Cost and Public Backlash
During the prolonged legal proceedings, Westcott's health deteriorated significantly. The elderly veteran became bedridden due to Huntington's disease and eventually required round-the-clock hospice care. His son, Court Westcott, revealed the emotional toll the case has taken on his father and mentioned that even a simple apology would be appreciated.
The situation has drawn sharp criticism from public relations experts and the general public. US-based PR strategist Abesi Manyando described the scenario as a classic "David and Goliath" narrative, noting the terrible optics of a wealthy pop star demanding substantial damages from a terminally ill veteran who has already lost his home.
Meanwhile, Perry has been in the news for her personal life, with recent photographs published by the Daily Mail showing her displaying affection with former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau aboard her yacht in September.
