In the legal battle for guardianship against her father, Britney Spears appears to welcome #FreeBritney, after a statement has been released from her legal team.The hash-tagged movement supports the singer in regaining control over various aspects of her life, including her money, health and daily routine.
The stars father, Jamie Spears has been her legal guardian and in charge of her affairs since 2008, after she was twice admitted to a psychiatric facility. This means the 38-year-old must seek permission before making any significant decisions relating to her life.
A 2016 article by The New York Times stated, “Her most mundane purchases, from a drink at Starbucks to a song on iTunes, are tracked in court documents as part of the plan to safeguard the great fortune she has earned, but does not ultimately control.”
In a filing last week, Spears called the conservatorship of her $57.4 million (£42.5 million) fortune “voluntary” and indicated that she was happy for it continue. However, she no longer wants her father to be in charge of her affairs, stating that she wants her fortune to be overseen by a wealth-management company called the Bessemer Trust.
The #FreeBritney movement supports her wishes and argues that the singer is currently being unfairly controlled by people who stand to gain financially from the guardianship. For example, it is thought that Spears’ father receives around $130k (£97k) per annum from her estate.
The movement has gained support from celebrities including Miley Cyrus and Cher, as well a number of fans who protest outside court hearings. Now, it appears that the movement is endorsed by the singer and her legal team.
In the court battle for conservatorship, Spears’ father has attempted to keep hearings related to her affairs sealed, whereas she has argued that the public has a right to know what is happening.
“At this point in her life when she is trying to regain some measure of personal autonomy, Britney welcomes and appreciates the informed support of her many fans.”
Samuel Ingham III, Britney’s lawyer.
A hearing on the conservatorship of Spears’ affairs is scheduled for October.
Words by Bec Oakes.