Levon Helm’s Daughter Countersues Levon Helm Studios

Amy Helm has countersued Levon Helm Studios, disputing how control of the Woodstock venue changed hands after she was removed as its president. Her complaint alleges that successor Brian Parillo used invalid shareholder votes to take over management, raising questions about the company’s governance and the role of Levon Helm’s widow, Sandra.

The 34-page complaint, filed on 16 October, says Amy Helm and Sandra each own 40% of the company, while Parillo and Barbara O’Brien own 10% apiece. It alleges Parillo claimed voting assignments from Sandra and O’Brien to wield 60% of the votes, and that required shareholder consent and a meeting were absent. The countersuit also alleges undue influence over Sandra; Parillo has previously denied related allegations of financial exploitation and elder abuse. In August, the studio accused Amy Helm of charging it $400,000 for personal expenses, taking a further $200,000 from Levon Helm’s estate and infringing on the Midnight Ramble name.