Ty Warner’s Ex Alleges Abuse, Sues for Half of $400 Million Montecito Estate
Kathryn Zimmie, 85, Also Claims the Billionaire Stole Her Identity to Hide His Assets
The longtime partner of Ty Warner is suing the Beanie Baby tycoon for half of his estimated $400 million Montecito estate after their “marriage-like” relationship ended in November amid what she claims were years of abuse.
In a complaint filed Wednesday in Santa Barbara Superior Court, Kathryn Zimmie, 85, alleges she “fled” the five-parcel compound on Channel Drive last year “out of fear for her well-being and safety,” leaving behind all of her clothing and personal possessions.
Now living in Los Angeles, Zimmie says she is entitled to substantial compensation from Warner, 77, as she acted as his “companion, confidante, protector, and helpmate” for the better part of two decades with a longstanding promise from him that she would be financially cared for “fairly and forever.” Zimmie is also demanding the return of dozens of her original paintings ― described as abstract pieces in the style of artist Helen Frankenthaler ― that hang on the walls of Warner’s many hotel properties.
