Mary Austin, famously known as the former girlfriend and the biggest beneficiary of Freddie Mercury’s estate, has an intriguing financial tale woven through her association with the legendary Queen frontman. With a net worth of $115 million, Austin’s fortune is a testament to her enduring bond with Mercury and her savvy management of the inheritance he left her.
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Table of Contents
Who is Mary Austin?
Mary Austin is an English woman who rose to prominence through her close association with Freddie Mercury, Queen’s charismatic lead vocalist. Beyond her relationship with Mercury, she has maintained a relatively low profile, choosing to live a life away from the glare of the media spotlight.
Early Life
Born on March 6, 1951, in Fulham, London, Mary Austin came from a humble background. The daughter of deaf parents, she left school at the age of 15 and ventured into the workforce, ultimately finding herself in the vibrant world of 1970s London fashion.
Personal Life
Mary’s personal life took a dramatic turn when she met Freddie Mercury. Their relationship evolved from romantic involvement to a profound friendship, with Mercury referring to her as his “common-law wife.” Despite their breakup, they remained inseparably close until Mercury died in 1991.
Career
Mary Austin’s career is less documented compared to her personal life and relationship with Mercury. However, she played a crucial role in managing Mercury’s estate after his passing, including the sale of some of his possessions for charitable causes.
Mary Austin Net Worth
As of 2024, Mary Austin’s net worth stands at an impressive $115 million, largely attributed to her inheritance from Freddie Mercury, which included his vast estate and a significant portion of his future earnings from Queen’s royalties.
How Much Money Did Mary Austin Inherit from Freddie Mercury?
Freddie Mercury left Mary Austin the lion’s share of his estate, estimated at around £75 million at the time, including his luxurious Kensington mansion and half of his future earnings from Queen’s royalties.
Who Owns the Rights to Queen Songs?
The rights to Queen’s songs are owned by the band members and Mercury’s estate through Queen Music Ltd, administered by Sony Music Publishing. This arrangement ensures that the legacy of Queen’s music continues to benefit its creators and their heirs.
Conclusion
Mary Austin’s net worth is a reflection of her significant role in Freddie Mercury’s life, both personally and financially. Her careful stewardship of his estate and the royalties from Queen’s enduring music catalog have secured her a place among the wealthiest individuals associated with rock music royalty.
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FAQs about Mary Austin
- What Was Mary Austin’s Relationship with Freddie Mercury?
- Mary Austin was Freddie Mercury’s former girlfriend and lifelong friend. Mercury considered her his “common-law wife” and left her the majority of his estate.
- Did Mary Austin Remarry After Freddie Mercury’s Death?
- Yes, Mary Austin has been married twice since Freddie Mercury’s death but details of her personal life remain private.
- How Did Mary Austin Manage Freddie Mercury’s Estate?
- Mary Austin has managed Freddie Mercury’s estate with discretion, occasionally selling pieces from his collection for charity, including a significant auction in 2023.
- What is Mary Austin’s Role in Keeping Freddie Mercury’s Legacy Alive?
- Mary Austin has played a crucial role in preserving Freddie Mercury’s legacy, carefully managing his estate and ensuring his wishes are honored.
- How Has Mary Austin’s Life Changed Since Inheriting Freddie Mercury’s Estate?
- Inheriting Freddie Mercury’s estate has significantly increased Mary Austin’s net worth, but she has chosen to live a relatively private life, focusing on managing the estate and contributing to charitable causes.
