It’s no secret to beautydirectory site users that I’m obsessed with the continuing Liliane Bettencourt saga. Every time there’s a new drama in the case, I’m quick to start pouring over all the details. In fact, I can’t wait for the case to be turned into a TV drama or blockbuster film (it’s probably already being drafted in Hollywood).
So what’s the latest scandal to hit the L’Oréal heiress? The ex-lawyer, nurse and a former business associate of the 89-year-old have all been brought in for questioning by French police over allegations of abuse of power.
Police are investigating whether former lawyer Pascal Wilhelm and reality TV entrepreneur Stephanie Courbit took advantage of Bettencourt in order to secure a $AU180 million investment in Courbit’s LOV Group.
Bettencourt bought 20 per cent of LOV Group in May 2011, just months before being placed under her family’s guardianship due to ill mental health.
Wilhelm is said to have arranged the transaction between Bettencourt and Courbit. What makes the ordeal even more scandalous is Wilhelm is not only Bettencourt’s lawyer, but is also Courbit’s lawyer. Conflict of interest, much?!
The heiress’ former nurse Alain Thurin was also brought in for questioning over the transaction, according to AFP.
With everyone from her close personal friends to ex- French president Nicolas Sarkozy accused of taking advantage of the ageing heiress, I think it’s probably a good thing her family is now in charge of her fortune.
With the saga reminding me of an episode of Gossip Girl brought to life, I look forward to bringing you the next chapter in this tale of the super rich and not-so-ethical Frenchies…
