Jack Douglas, known for producing John Lennon’s final works, 1980’s Double Fantasy and 1984’s posthumous Milk and Honey, faced financial issues after Lennon’s tragic death. Despite his close ties with Lennon, Douglas initially overlooked the unpaid royalties. As time passed without payment, he approached Yoko Ono to resolve the financial matters.
This led to an unusual court case filled with unexpected twists.
Jann Wenner’s Inconsistent Testimony
Douglas recounted in a podcast interview that Ono was advised by someone he considered unreliable, despite being someone she should have trusted. Attempts to settle without legal action failed, leading Douglas and Ono to New York’s Superior Court.
Jann Wenner, founder of Rolling Stone, was called as a witness by Ono’s team. Douglas claimed Wenner was promised exclusive content for his support. Wenner testified dismissively about Douglas, calling him a “nobody,” despite Douglas’s notable work with artists like the Who and Aerosmith.
Douglas’s attorney, Peter Parcher, countered by making Wenner read a section from his own book that praised Douglas’s contributions, which embarrassed Wenner.
Phil Spector’s Chaotic Testimony
Phil Spector’s court appearance was described as chaotic. Douglas noted Spector seemed disoriented during questioning, and after his testimony, his wig shifted, causing an awkward scene.
Record producer Phil Spector in the ’80s. Frank Edwards/Fotos International, Getty Images
Alleged Witchcraft
The courtroom was split between supporters of both parties. Douglas recalled a mysterious man who sat behind him daily, whom he thanked for attending. This man, rumored to be a witch hired by Ono, reportedly found Douglas’s gratitude disarming and eventually stopped attending.
Bob Gruen, a rock photographer and mutual friend, confirmed the man’s mystical intentions, stating he couldn’t affect Douglas due to his positive demeanor.
Reconciliation Between Douglas and Ono
The jury ruled in favor of Douglas, awarding him over $2.5 million. Years later, Douglas and Ono reconciled at a concert by Sean Lennon. They shared a warm moment, leading to renewed collaboration.
Douglas and Ono have maintained a friendly relationship, with Douglas attending her art exhibits and receiving annual holiday greetings from her. “We stay in touch,” Douglas affirmed. “I love her.”
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Gallery Credit: Michael Gallucci
