Surprise Will of Late Zappos CEO Reveals New Twists for His Fortune
A recent revelation from the Wall Street Journal indicates that late Zappos co-founder Tony Hsieh had specific plans for his $1.2 billion estate, contrary to previous beliefs that he passed away without leaving any instructions.
The discovered will, signed in 2015 and unveiled in a recent court filing, includes a bold provision aimed at Hsieh’s family members: a no-contest clause stipulating that if any of his four relatives challenges his wishes, none of them will receive anything from the estate. Additionally, the will designates over $50 million and multiple Las Vegas properties to undisclosed trusts intended to surprise the recipients.
One notable allocation in the will is $3 million earmarked for Hsieh’s alma mater, Harvard University. This decision comes at a time when Harvard is embroiled in legal battles with the Trump administration over federal funding and investments. The will adds an unexpected dimension to the ongoing legal dispute surrounding Hsieh’s estate, following his tragic death in a house fire at the age of 46 in November 2020.
It is reported that Hsieh crafted the will with the intention of providing a “WOW factor” for the beneficiaries, aiming for them to “live in the wow.” The unconventional nature of the will further complicates the already complex legal proceedings surrounding Hsieh’s estate.
