Roy Horn, best known as one-half of the iconic Siegfried & Roy magic act, lived a life filled with glamour, exotic animals, and international fame. But when he passed away in 2020, the world discovered something else about him—he was also a careful planner. His estate plan protected his assets, maintained his privacy, and ensured his wishes were followed. For anyone considering Mesa Wills and Trusts, Roy Horn’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of thoughtful estate planning.
Why Roy Horn Chose a Trust—and Why You Might, Too
Roy Horn’s last will and testament was filed publicly in Las Vegas courts, but the real substance of his estate was held in a private trust. This move helped shield the details of his beneficiaries and assets from public view.
A trust is a powerful estate planning tool that allows you to:
- Maintain privacy. Unlike a will, which becomes part of the public record during probate, a trust keeps your estate and the names of your heirs private.
- Avoid probate. Assets in a trust bypass the court process, saving time and money for your loved ones.
- Control asset distribution. Trusts allow you to set specific terms for when and how beneficiaries receive their inheritance.
These benefits are particularly appealing for residents of Mesa, Arizona, where using Mesa Wills and Trusts can streamline the estate process and keep personal matters confidential.
What Roy Horn’s Estate Plan Looked Like
In his 2016 will, Roy Horn named his long-time stage partner Siegfried Fischbacher as the executor of his estate. If Siegfried couldn’t serve, two other trusted individuals were named as alternates. While the will was filed publicly, it contained minimal details—because the heavy lifting was done by the trust.
The trust, which remained private, held the instructions for how Horn’s multi-million dollar estate would be distributed. This ensured that beneficiaries’ identities and the amounts they inherited were not disclosed publicly. Horn’s estate was sizable, with assets amassed from decades of top-billing shows on the Las Vegas Strip. A well-structured trust kept those assets secure and away from prying eyes.
How a Trust Works with a Will
Roy Horn’s estate plan shows how using a will and trust together can be an ideal solution. The will acts as a safety net, often called a “pour-over will,” directing any assets not already in the trust to be moved there after death. This ensures that everything is covered.
When you meet with an estate planning attorney in Mesa, they may recommend this two-part strategy. Here’s why:
- The will provides legal structure. It names your executor and outlines your final wishes.
- The trust handles the details. It holds and manages your assets privately, avoiding court delays and fees.
If you’re looking for a way to protect your family and legacy, Mesa Wills and Trusts can help you create a plan that combines both tools effectively. Read more in our article, What is the Difference between a Trust and a Will?
Protecting Beneficiaries from Probate and Conflict
Public probate can expose your estate to challenges from distant relatives or opportunistic parties. Roy Horn’s trust avoided these issues. There was no courtroom drama, no tabloid headlines about who got what, and no family disputes made public.
For Mesa residents, this kind of protection is especially important. Arizona’s probate process can be time-consuming and expensive. With a trust, your loved ones can avoid delays and access the assets you’ve left them with minimal stress.
Trusts Aren’t Just for the Rich and Famous
You don’t need to be a Las Vegas headliner to benefit from a trust. Anyone with property, savings, or family members they care about can benefit from proper estate planning. The cost of creating a trust is far less than the potential cost—financial and emotional—of going through probate without one.
Working with an experienced attorney who focuses on Mesa Wills and Trusts ensures that your documents are legally sound, tailored to your needs, and compliant with Arizona law.
Meet with a Mesa Estate Planning Attorney to Make Privacy and Protection Part of Your Plan
Roy Horn’s careful planning is a blueprint for anyone who wants to control their legacy. He didn’t just plan for death—he planned for dignity, for discretion, and for the people he loved. His story teaches us that proper planning isn’t about wealth. It’s about wisdom.
If you’re ready to start your estate planning journey, or want to update an existing plan, don’t wait. At Life Plan LegalAZ, we help Arizona families use Mesa Wills and Trusts to create peace of mind today and protection for tomorrow. Schedule a strategy session to discuss your estate planning goals.
Life Plan LegalAZ is here to help Mesa families protect what matters most—with clarity, compassion, and customized estate planning solutions. Don’t leave your legacy to chance. Let’s build your plan together.
References: The Motley Fool (July 5, 2024) “Is a Living Trust Really the Best Way to Pass an Inheritance to Your Family?” and The Blast (June 27, 2020) “’Siegfried & Roy’ Star Roy Horn’s Will Names Siegfried As Executor Of His Multi-Million Dollar Estate”
