Relatives Gain Control of Dead Actor’s Estate
Relatives of David Rappaport, the dwarf “L.A. Law” actor who committed suicide in May, have gained control of his estate from Los Angeles County officials.
A Superior Court commissioner Friday selected Frankie Leigh, the star’s cousin and manager, to serve as general administrator of the estate. Leigh had presented letters to the court signed by Rappaport’s son and heir, Joseph, the boy’s mother and other relatives who backed her appointment.
Previously, the county public administrator’s office had asserted jurisdiction over the British Rappaport’s U.S. possessions, which primarily consist of a house in the Hollywood Hills, a car, clothing and a checking account. Representatives of the county had begun eviction proceedings against Rappaport’s fiancee, Eliza Lende, and had attempted to take possession of his car and clothing.
Gene Kent of the public administrator’s office said the county was trying to protect the interests of the actor’s son.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
