The Millionaire Cat of Lagerfeld Must Work
Karl Lagerfeld’s cat, Shupet, continues to live in luxury with a Parisian apartment, personal chef, and involvement in high-profile advertising campaigns, according to sources. The feline, described as a “top model” in the fashion world, was named in Lagerfeld’s 2019 will to inherit a €1.5 million trust and a Paris apartment. However, seven years after the designer’s death, the inheritance remains in legal limbo, with disputes over its validity and tax obligations.
Shupet’s current lifestyle includes social media engagement and brand partnerships, managed by a team led by Lucas Berylié, a manager for animal influencers. Berylié confirmed that Shupet only collaborates with brands that avoid animal cruelty, rejecting deals involving natural leather. The cat’s activities are strictly regulated to ensure her well-being, with photo sessions limited to two hours in familiar settings.
What Happened
Shupet became a central figure in Lagerfeld’s life after being gifted to him in 2011 by model Bastien Jabiconi. The designer, who never married or had children, described the cat as his “center of the world,” even publishing two photo albums of her. Upon learning of his terminal cancer diagnosis, Lagerfeld named his housekeeper, Françoise Cahot, as Shupet’s guardian, transferring a Paris apartment and a trust fund. However, the will faced immediate legal hurdles, including France’s prohibition on transferring assets to animals and a 40 million euro tax dispute.
Why It Matters
The case highlights the intersection of celebrity wealth, legal frameworks, and animal welfare. Lagerfeld’s decision to prioritize Shupet over family members—his sisters had predeceased him—sparked controversy. The dispute also underscores the challenges of enforcing unconventional wills, as French law does not recognize animals as legal heirs. If the will is invalidated, assets could be redistributed to Lagerfeld’s nieces, who recently challenged its validity, alleging he lacked mental capacity at the time of signing.
What May Happen Next
The legal battle could extend for years, with courts potentially ruling on whether the will’s terms comply with French law. If the court upholds the will, Shupet’s caretakers may gain access to the funds, though tax obligations could reduce the total. If the will is struck down, the 200 million euro estate—allocated to Shupet and seven associates—would be restructured, with nieces likely to receive a portion. Meanwhile, Shupet’s career as a brand ambassador may continue, provided her team secures partnerships aligned with Lagerfeld’s legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Shupet’s current status? Shupet lives in a Paris apartment with a personal chef and manager, working in advertising and social media. She does not receive the full inheritance due to ongoing legal disputes.
Why is the inheritance contested? The will faces challenges over France’s legal restrictions on transferring assets to animals and a tax claim of 40 million euros. Additionally, Lagerfeld’s nieces argue he lacked mental capacity when signing the document.
What happens if the will is invalidated? If the court rules the will invalid, assets would be distributed to Lagerfeld’s nieces, who have not been named in the original document.
Could the legal battle over Shupet’s inheritance set a precedent for how celebrity wealth is distributed in the future?