We idolize them, listen to their music, watch their movies and wish we could be like them. Indeed, many people think that celebrities have it all and their loyal fans and followers worship them.
But when it comes to paying taxes, some celebrities miss the mark and need preferred tax relief. Whether they forgot to pay or refused to pay taxes is beside the point. What we do know is that these celebrities owe the government large sums of money and they should consider getting preferred tax help before its too late.
Todays younger generation of music lovers probably dont remember pop singer Dionne Warwick whose sophisticated songs dominated the airwaves in the 60s. With her distinctive alto voice, Warwick (born Marie Dionne Warrick) built a career interpreting the complicated songs of Burt Bacharach and Hal David. Not only did she top the pop, easy listening and RB charts with hits like Dont Make Me Over , Walk On By , Theme from Valley of the Dolls , I Say A Little Prayer and Do You Know the Way to San Jose? , Warwick also won numerous awards for her unique performances.
Unfortunately, paying taxes doesnt seem to be one of Warwicks talents. In 2007, Warwick made it to the California Franchise Tax Boards list of delinquent taxpayers. She reportedly owes the California government over $2.6 million in back taxes and has been hiding from tax collectors for over 10 years. For a talented singer who has won lots of Grammys and who has received money from the sales of her gold and platinum albums, its a shame to see Warwicks career end on a sour note.
Also on that list is Sinbad, a hardworking comedian whos known for his clean image and family-friendly antics. Sinbad (born David Adkins) endeared audiences with his standup routine that paved the way for his television and film career. His TV credits include The Cosby Show spin-off A Different World (1987) and his very own Sinbad and Friends All the Way Live…Almost.
On the silver screen, one of his memorable roles was opposite Arnold Schwarzenegger in 1996s Jingle All the Way. The funnyman continues to tour America to bring laughter to the masses and supports worthwhile causes like the Children’s Defense Fund, the Omega Boys Club and AIDS awareness.
However, Sinbads inclusion in the list of delinquent taxpayers isnt funny nor does it speak highly of one known for his clean image. As of 2007, he owed the government $2.1 million dollars and his outstanding tax debt dates back to December 1993. Clearly, he needs preferred tax advice as well.
Whats the lesson to be learned from this article? It simply shows that celebrities are human and theyre not exempted from taxes. As American author, satirist, politician, inventor and diplomat Benjamin Franklin said “But in the world nothing can be said to be certain except death and taxes.” Whether we like it not, taxes are here to stay and we should pay them.