Actor Brad Pitt has moved to compel testimony from a wealthy Russian businessman as part of his ongoing legal battle with ex-wife Angelina Jolie over the sale of their French winery, Château Miraval.
According to court documents obtained by TMZ, Pitt is asking a Los Angeles judge to order Yuri Shefler, a businessman linked to the liquor company Stoli, to appear for a remote deposition. Pitt’s legal team argues that Shefler played a central role in the controversial transaction.
The dispute stems from a 2022 lawsuit filed by Pitt, in which he alleges that Jolie sold her stake in Château Miraval without his consent. The former couple had jointly purchased the estate during their marriage. Pitt claims he attempted to buy Jolie’s share following their divorce, but negotiations ultimately broke down.
Subsequently, Jolie sold her interest in the winery to Stoli, a company associated with Shefler. In a recent filing, Pitt contends that the deal was orchestrated and finalized at Shefler’s direction, making his testimony critical to the case.
However, Shefler has reportedly resisted the request, citing his residency in Switzerland. Pitt, undeterred, maintains that email exchanges between Jolie and Shefler indicate direct communication and suggest that he possesses relevant knowledge essential to the litigation.
The legal battle over Château Miraval remains ongoing, with both sides continuing to contest the circumstances surrounding the sale.#newsafro_
