Anthony Bourdain’s untimely death shocked his fans and the world at large. The famous chef, author and travel documentarian made news again a few days ago when his will was probated.
Tabloids and gossips went into a frenzy when it was revealed that Bourdain was worth “only” $1.21 million at the time of his death. Social media was abuzz, too: the dollar amount seemed far too small for a man who had had such a big impact on American culture. Forbes took a look at Bourdain’s estate plan and understood that it made clear which two parts of his life that the late icon held most dear.
First and foremost, Bourdain took care of his daughter. The bulk of his estate will go to her, the publication reported.
While aspects of life might have been difficult for him, it is plain that he was thorough in making estate plans. Forbes notes that a survey taken last year showed that 60 percent of Americans don’t have estate plans. For Gen X and Millennials, the numbers are even worse: 64 percent and 78 percent, respectively, don’t have estate plans.
A sign of the high-flying chef’s meticulousness: even his frequent flyer miles were accounted for in his estate plan. Bourdain left them to his estranged wife to “dispose of in accordance to what she believes to be his wishes.”
Forbes notes that many frequent travelers overlook that aspect of estate planning, though the perks can be quite valuable for someone like Bourdain or global entrepreneurs.
A conversation with an experienced estate planning attorney can help ensure that assets and loved ones are both protected when the time comes.