The reality TV world has watched Alana “Honey Boo Boo” Thompson grow up on screen, and now, as she embarks on her college journey, questions arise about her financial preparedness, especially within the context of “Mama June: Family Crisis.” With her decision to attend an out-of-state university, speculation is mounting about how her finances are being managed, particularly concerning the earnings she accumulated as a child star.
One key aspect of child performers’ finances is the Coogan Act, designed to protect a portion of their earnings. These laws, similar to California’s Coogan Act, exist in states like New York, Illinois, and others, mandating that a percentage of a child actor’s income be placed in a trust account. This money is intended to safeguard their financial future, although it can be used for living expenses during their childhood. However, the extent to which Alana’s earnings were protected, and how much remains in such an account, is unclear. It’s even questioned whether Alana ever had a formal trust account, raising concerns about the availability of funds for her expensive out-of-state education. Opting for in-state schools could have presented a significantly more affordable path for her higher education.
Adding another layer of intrigue is Alana’s recent move into a rental house. Questions are being asked about how a young adult, presumably without an established credit history, secured a rental agreement. Speculation points towards the possibility of her boyfriend, Dralin Carswell, moving in, which might necessitate a background check if he becomes a legal tenant. Alternatively, there’s a theory that the production company behind “Mama June: Family Crisis” could be facilitating the rental, perhaps hinting at a potential spinoff series focused on Alana’s life.
Interestingly, the landscape of child performer laws hasn’t fully caught up with the digital age. As highlighted by Morgan Stanley, current regulations often exempt social media stars and “influencers” from these child entertainer labor laws. This means that young celebrities who primarily generate content online may not be required to establish Coogan accounts, a significant loophole in financial protection for young digital creators.
While Coogan accounts aim to shield child stars’ earnings, even with legal safeguards, the funds aren’t always guaranteed to last until adulthood. These accounts can legitimately cover various expenses, including lessons, training, housing, travel, and education. There are also historical cases, like one from the early 90s, where mismanagement and poor investment choices, even by family trustees, have depleted these funds, leaving young performers with limited resources despite their past success. This underlines the importance of sound financial management and oversight to ensure the long-term security of child stars’ earnings.
As “Mama June: Family Crisis” continues to unfold, viewers are left to wonder about the financial realities facing Honey Boo Boo. Her college choices and living arrangements raise pertinent questions about her financial planning and the protections, or lack thereof, afforded to young stars navigating the complexities of fame and fortune.
