American pop superstar Katy Perry appeared virtually in court this week to testify in her ongoing legal battle over the purchase of a $15 million Montecito mansion. The trial, which has stretched on for years, revolves around claims made by entrepreneur Carl Westcott, who sold the property to Perry and her then-partner, actor Orlando Bloom, in 2020.
Perry took the virtual stand on Tuesday, August 26, appearing via Zoom to answer questions about the disputed real estate deal. During the testimony, Westcott’s attorney, Andrew J. Thomas, pressed the singer on what she stood to gain from the case. In a one-word reply, Perry responded, “Justice.” When further asked about financial stakes, she admitted, “I stand to lose money if it doesn’t work in my favour.”
The Disputed Mansion Deal
The legal battle traces back to 2020, when Westcott attempted to rescind the sale of his 1930s Montecito estate. Diagnosed with Huntington’s Disease in 2015, he argued that he lacked the mental capacity to enter into the contract at the time of signing. He later sued Perry’s manager, Bernie Gudvi, in August 2020, to reverse the deal.
After years of litigation, a judge ruled in May 2023 that Westcott had provided “no persuasive evidence” to prove incapacity. Perry ultimately gained legal ownership of the property under the LLC DDoveB.
Damages Sought
While ownership of the mansion has been settled, the case has since been bifurcated. Perry is now seeking more than $5 million in damages, with $3 million attributed to lost rental income. She also cited potential losses in legal fees and other financial impacts tied to the protracted dispute.
Outside the courtroom drama, Perry’s personal life has also made headlines. She and Bloom, who share a five-year-old daughter, Daisy Dove, recently ended their six-year engagement, marking another significant change for the global music star. Katy Perry is one of the finest and talented artists in the Hollywood.
