OOPS

Microsoft Billionaire Accidentally Doused His Own Monet With Soda

A former manager of Paul Allen’s Beverly Hills estate recalled a bizarre incident during her time running the property.

When managing the estates of the ultra-rich, even a soda mishap can trigger a high-stakes investigation. Kelly Fore Dixon, former estate manager for the late Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, recounted a bizarre incident from her time overseeing his 12,000-square-foot Beverly Hills residence. The property, which included a home theater, recording studio, swimming pool, and 30 HVAC units, was supported by a team of full-time staff, private security, and about 80 subcontractors. “Silent and unseen was the protocol” when Allen was around, Dixon told The Wall Street Journal. Among Allen’s assets was a collection of artwork valued at around $50 million, including a Monet painting that appeared to have been mistakenly sprayed with soda. When an art contractor flagged the damage during a routine inspection, he asked: “What the hell have you done to the painting?” Dixon said. When security footage was reviewed, the culprit turned out to be Allen himself.