The battle over Richard Simmons’ $20 million estate has turned into an all-out war.
RadarOnline.com can reveal the late fitness guru’s caretaker is taking on both his brother Leonard and estranged manager Michael Catalano by accusing them of removing her as co-trustee of his estate – and she is seeking to be reinstated.
According to court documents filed by caretaker Teresa Reveles Muro, she has accused the couple of joining forces and “looting” Simmons’ “assets and inheritance.”
The petition continued: “During the final years of his life, Richard unequivocally cut ties with Catalano because he exploited Richard’s celebrity without proper authorization and compensation.
“Leonard has openly defied Richard’s explicit instructions by returning to business with Catalano.”
However, Leonard has hit back, claiming he is “solely interested in protecting and preserving my brother’s legacy” and refuting Muro’s claims, calling her criticism of Catalano “unwarranted.”
Speaking to National Enquirer, he added: “Michael was Richard’s old manager and his friend.
“Michael worked tirelessly for Richard throughout his life, often without compensation, and continues to do so even after his death. It is a shame that Teresa is trying to tarnish his reputation and damage his career.”
After Muro’s lawsuit, Leonard fired back in legal papers by accusing her of stealing $1 million worth of jewelry from his brother’s collection. He also claims that she stole valuable works of art from his home.
Furthermore, Leonard claims that Muro voluntarily gave up the role of co-manager.
“Teresa has demonstrated strong hostility toward Leonard for reasons he does not understand,” he said in a motion seeking to have her petition dismissed.
“It would be counterproductive for them both to act as co-trustees and would almost certainly lead to the appointment of a corporate trustee.”