Leona Helmsley
Leona Helmsley was a well-known American businesswoman who had amassed a massive fortune as a hotelier. She was also notorious for her brushes with the law and her tyrannical behavior which earned her the sobriquet the 'Queen of Mean.'.
Business Figure
1920
August 20, 2007
87
New York, New York
Leona Helmsley, often referred to as the “Queen of Mean,” was a prominent American businesswoman and hotelier who amassed a significant fortune in the industry. She was notorious for her ruthless management style, extravagant lifestyle, and legal troubles, including a conviction for federal income tax evasion in 1989. Despite her controversial reputation, Helmsley was also a philanthropist, contributing to various medical and educational charities.
Married to Harry Helmsley, a well-known real estate entrepreneur, Leona became infamous for her statement that “only the little people pay taxes,” which further solidified her reputation. She was also an avid animal lover, particularly devoted to her pet Maltese, Trouble, who inherited a $12 million trust fund from her estate, sparking controversy and media attention.
Upon her passing, Helmsley left behind over $10 billion in assets, much of which was eventually donated to charitable causes. Despite her contentious legacy, her influence on the hotel industry and philanthropic efforts cannot be ignored.
