She has been called the world's richest cat. Accustomed to private jets and a personal chef, Choupette has lapped up a life of luxury. The pure-bred Birman was German fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld's beloved pet, and on his death in 2019 reportedly inherited at least $1.5 million (£1.1 million). But today she is broke and living off the kindness of Lagerfeld's former housekeeper.
Choupette's Fall from Grace
'We have received absolutely nothing,' said Francoise Cacote, who was Lagerfeld's faithful French housemaid. 'I work part-time to support her,' she told Atlantic Magazine. Lagerfeld, the long-time creative director of Chanel, made it clear that he wanted Choupette well cared for after his death. 'I'm doing my best to honour his wishes,' Ms Cacote said.
Choupette, now 14, lived with Lagerfeld at his £10 million Paris home beside the Seine, where she ate from designer Maison Goyard bowls. Today she shares an apartment with Ms Cacote, her husband, their children, and their rescue cat. It is a dramatic fall from grace for the moggy Lagerfeld adored.
Lagerfeld's Love for Choupette
'I have only one great love: my cat, Choupette,' he said. 'She is the centre of the world.' Choupette became one of the world's most lucrative feline models, earning $3 million in 2014 alone from advertising. But without Lagerfeld to direct campaigns, her career has slowed.
Legal Challenges and French Law
Now Lagerfeld's will is being challenged in court, with it being claimed he was of unsound mind when he bequeathed his $150 million estate. But French law does not allow animals to inherit money or property. 'I have had to hire expensive lawyers to claim the inheritance in my name,' Ms Cacote said.
