The majority of actress Julie Harris' estate was inherited by her son, Peter Gurian.
Julie Harris, an iconic figure in American theater and film, ensured her son was the primary beneficiary of her assets. Peter Gurian resided in a house specifically built for him by his mother on her expansive Cape Cod estate, underscoring the deep connection and provision she made for him during her lifetime.
Details of the Inheritance
While Peter Gurian was designated as the main inheritor, legal documents pertaining to Harris' will included specific provisions.
- Primary Beneficiary: Peter Gurian, Julie Harris' son.
- Estate Location: Her property on Cape Cod, where Peter Gurian lived in a house his mother constructed for him.
- Will Codicil: The will also contained a codicil, a legal amendment, which stipulated conditions regarding the inheritance. This codicil stated: "In the event that... my son..." indicating potential contingencies or alternative arrangements should certain circumstances arise concerning Peter Gurian.
Understanding Will Codicils
A codicil is a legal document that modifies, explains, or revokes a will or part of it. It doesn't replace the entire will but rather makes specific changes. In estate planning, codicils are often used to:
- Add new beneficiaries.
- Change the distribution of assets.
- Update personal information or executor appointments.
- Address unforeseen circumstances or changes in family dynamics.
For Julie Harris' estate, the mention of a codicil implies careful planning for various possibilities, ensuring her wishes were clearly articulated beyond the initial structure of the will.
