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In 2009, Ola Ray sued the King of Pop's estate for unpaid royalties shortly before Michael Jackson died. A $75,000 settlement came later, $20,000 of which went to her attorneys, according to TMZ. Her settlement was smaller than expected — she felt she was owed millions, per her contract. In 2019, Ray told DailyMailTV that she is still owed "millions" and lives under the poverty line. "How do they think they can just do this without paying me?" she asked. "These people are making millions of dollars out of me. Right now I'm living in a small one-bedroom apartment. My daughter and grandchildren also live here and it's been a struggle for us, so this is why it's really important that I keep fighting, my life shouldn't be like this."
At the time, Ray told the outlet she makes money off signing autographs at conventions. In 2023, she was a special guest at the "Son of Monsterpalooza" in California, where she celebrated the 40th anniversary of the "Thriller" video. As of 2023, Ray was active on Facebook and TikTok, where she posted positive affirmations and promoted her career.
If you or anyone you know needs help with addiction issues, help is available. Visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website or contact SAMHSA's National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.
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