The estate of Michael Jackson is facing renewed legal scrutiny after four former family friends filed a federal lawsuit accusing the late pop icon and individuals tied to his business network of sex trafficking and long-term abuse during their childhood. The complaint, submitted on February 27, 2026, has been brought forward by Edward Cascio, Dominic Cascio, Marie-Nicole Porte, and Aldo Cascio, all of whom were previously known to be part of Jackson’s inner circle during his lifetime.
According to the filing, the plaintiffs allege that Jackson groomed and abused them over a span exceeding a decade, with some claiming the alleged misconduct began when they were as young as seven or eight years old. The lawsuit asserts that Jackson used his global fame, wealth, and influence to cultivate close relationships with the children and their families. Through gifts, travel opportunities, and emotional connection, the plaintiffs claim that trust was built before they were allegedly isolated and subjected to abuse.
The legal complaint extends beyond accusations against Jackson personally. It also names corporate entities and individuals associated with his estate, including The Michael Jackson Company and estate co-executors John Branca and John McClain. The plaintiffs contend that members of Jackson’s professional network and staff played a role in facilitating access to them during their youth.
The suit alleges that employees and associates enabled private interactions between Jackson and the children by arranging travel and stays at properties such as Neverland Ranch. It further claims that substances including drugs and alcohol were made available and that steps were taken to create situations where Jackson could spend time alone with them. Additionally, the complaint asserts that members of his organization later helped conceal alleged misconduct and relied on legal agreements or financial settlements to limit public disclosure.
The lawsuit outlines multiple claims, including sex trafficking of minors, negligence, intentional infliction of emotional distress, fraud, and breach of contract. The plaintiffs are seeking financial damages and have requested that the matter be decided through a jury trial.
Notably, the Cascio siblings were long regarded as loyal supporters of Jackson and had publicly defended him in the past. However, the lawsuit states that their perspective shifted following the release of Leaving Neverland, which examined allegations of abuse involving the late singer. According to the filing, their efforts to pursue accountability allegedly led to pressure to sign agreements that offered limited compensation while restricting their ability to speak openly.
Jackson, who died in 2009, was never criminally convicted of child sexual abuse during his lifetime. His estate has consistently denied past allegations, frequently characterising them as unfounded and financially motivated. Representatives for John Branca and the Estate of Michael Jackson have reportedly been contacted for comment regarding the new claims.
As the case moves forward through the federal legal system, it is likely to draw significant public attention given Jackson’s enduring global legacy and the seriousness of the allegations. For now, the matter remains ongoing, with no court determinations made regarding the claims presented in the complaint.
