Under Fire: Ian De Leon Speaks Out on Life After Nora Aunor’s Death—You Won’t Believe Who’s Attacking Him Over Her Inheritance

Since the passing of the legendary Nora Aunor, her only biological son Ian De Leon has found himself at the center of a firestorm—one that he says he never wanted. In a rare and heartfelt interview, Ian finally broke his silence, opening up about his current life, the emotional toll of his mother’s death, his family, and the unrelenting backlash he has received after being named the primary heir to her estate.

But what shocked fans even more than his revelations about grief and legacy, were the unexpected identities of those allegedly turning against him—people he once trusted, including distant relatives, industry insiders, and even some family members.

“I Never Asked for Any of This”

Sitting down with a close family friend in a private setting, Ian appeared composed yet deeply emotional. He shared that the weeks following Nora Aunor’s death were filled not just with mourning, but with whispers, blame, and accusations.

“I didn’t want attention, I didn’t want to be labeled as ‘the favored one.’ I just wanted to grieve my mother quietly,” Ian said. “But instead, I’ve been attacked from every side.”

According to Ian, several people—some of whom he hasn’t spoken to in years—suddenly emerged, demanding answers, challenging the will, or publicly implying that he manipulated their mother into handing him a disproportionate share of her fortune.

Who’s Attacking Him?

While Ian refused to name names directly, sources close to the De Leon-Aunor circle have confirmed that the most vocal critics include:

An estranged cousin of Nora’s who had long claimed she was promised a share of land in Bicol
A former production staffer who worked closely with Nora in her later years and believed they were owed part of her intellectual property rights
A family member by adoption, believed to be a sibling, who has allegedly made comments behind Ian’s back suggesting that Nora was “coerced” in her final decisions

Even some former colleagues of Nora in the entertainment industry, who remained close to her during her declining health, are rumored to have expressed disbelief and resentment over Ian’s inheritance.

“What hurts most is when the people who shared meals with you, who called you family, suddenly turn cold when money is involved,” Ian reflected.

His Life Now: Quiet, Private, and Focused on His Children

Despite the chaos, Ian is determined to keep his focus on what matters most: his own children and preserving his mother’s legacy with dignity. He now resides in a quiet subdivision outside Metro Manila, far from the media glare, where he spends most of his days working on archiving Nora Aunor’s materials, building a digital collection of her films, awards, and music for future generations.

“I want my kids to know the real Lola Nora,” he said. “Not just the headlines, not just the scandals, but the artist, the fighter, the woman who changed Philippine cinema.”

He also shared that the inheritance isn’t a luxury for him—but a responsibility.

“This isn’t about enjoying wealth. It’s about honoring a legacy that millions of fans loved. That’s not easy. That’s a burden I carry every day.”

Moving Forward with Strength

When asked if he plans to respond to his critics or take legal action, Ian simply said: “I have nothing to prove. My mother knew who I was, and that’s enough for me.”

As the dust slowly settles on the controversy surrounding Nora Aunor’s will, Ian De Leon continues to rise above the noise—not as a beneficiary, but as a son burdened with both grief and legacy. And while the attacks may continue, he remains rooted in the one thing no one can take from him: the truth of his relationship with his mother.