Selena’s Brother Sues Over Unpaid Earnings From Late Singer’s Estate

A death in the family can sometimes lead to fights over money. Singer Selena's family is no different.

Selena Family Legal Dispute

A legal dispute has erupted within the family of the late Tejano music star Selena, as her brother, A.B. Quintanilla, has has filed a lawsuit against his sister, Suzette Quintanilla Arriaga, along with two related corporate entities involved in managing the singer's brand. According to KXXV, the lawsuit charges that Q Productions have failed to distribute A.B.'s full earnings from the vast entertainment catalog and commercial properties associated with Selena.

Allegations of Breached Profit-Sharing Terms

At the heart of the complaint is a binding agreement established by the family following Selena's tragic death. That agreement outlined the commercial management of the late artist's name, likeness, and intellectual property. Under its conditions, A.B. asserts he was guaranteed a 25% share of net proceeds generated by those holdings.

Demands for Financial Audits and Damages

A.B. says he recognized in the spring of 2025 that his payouts were not matching what he was contractually due. Although he sought access to business accounting records to verify total earnings and track profit allocations, he says the defendants refused to supply complete financial documentation or clear the unpaid balance. A.B. is asking the court to order a comprehensive financial audit of Selena-related revenues, award any unpaid earnings, and order the payment of legal fees along with other damages.

Family History

This legal clash follows the passing of the family's patriarch, 85-year-old Abraham Quintanilla Jr., who served as Selena's long-time manager. Selena was 23 years old when she was fatally shot in 1995 by Yolanda Saldívar, the former president of her fan club. Saldívar is serving a life sentence. She became eligible to request parole in 2025; the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles denied her petition for release.