Two years after the tragic death of actress Shannen Doherty, a bitter legal conflict continues between her estate and her ex-husband, photographer Kurt Iswarienko. New court filings reveal an escalating dispute over the terms of their divorce settlement, signed in the final days of Doherty's life.
The Core of the Legal Dispute
In documents filed on Wednesday, January 14, Iswarienko's legal team has launched a fresh challenge, arguing the Los Angeles court lacks jurisdiction. The central claim is that Doherty's death on July 13, 2024, automatically terminated the marriage, rendering the divorce proceedings moot. Therefore, Iswarienko contends the court has no power to enforce the settlement agreement approved by a judge on July 15.
This argument directly counters efforts by the trustee of the Shannen Doherty Family Trust, Chris Cortazzo. In a November filing, Cortazzo sought legal standing to enforce the judgement, accusing Iswarienko of multiple breaches. The estate alleges he has failed to list their $1.5 million Dripping Springs, Texas home for sale by the agreed date of April 1, 2025, and has withheld personal property belonging to the late actress.
Allegations of Financial Withholding
The financial accusations are detailed and substantial. The estate claims Iswarienko unilaterally withheld $50,274 from the sale of an airplane hangar in August 2024, a payment that was due to Doherty's estate within five business days. As of the filing, this payment was stated to be 15 months delinquent.
Further breaches cited include a failure to produce a list of photographic works created during the marriage, which was due by September 1, 2024. Under their agreement, Doherty's estate is entitled to half of all licensing fees from those works. Iswarienko also allegedly agreed to remove all images of Doherty from his professional website but has not done so.
A Tragic Backdrop
This protracted legal war unfolds against the poignant backdrop of Doherty's nearly decade-long battle with cancer. The beloved Beverly Hills, 90210 and Charmed star died at age 53 on July 13, 2024, surrounded by loved ones and her dog, Bowie. Her divorce agreement was signed by her on July 12, with Iswarienko signing on July 13, the day of her passing.
The estate's filings paint a picture of a systematic refusal to comply with the legally binding judgement. With the jurisdictional challenge now on the table, the case appears set for further complex litigation, prolonging the resolution of Doherty's final affairs.
