Famous Faces in California’s Big Tax List

Malik Beasley, a former NBA player who last played for the Detroit Pistons and briefly signed with a Puerto Rican team, appears on California’s list of 500 people who owe the state huge amounts in unpaid taxes. The state says he owes roughly $1. 9 million, a figure that includes money from his partnership with Montana Yao and a lien filed last October in Beverly Hills. Beasley has also faced federal questions about possible gambling violations while with the Milwaukee Bucks, and the NBA is looking into the matter. His lawyer points out that an inquiry does not equal a charge and stresses that Beasley has no formal accusations yet. Toni Braxton, the R&B singer best known for “Un‑Break My Heart, ” also makes the list. She is reported to owe about $438, 000 in state taxes and has had a lien placed on her property since December 2018. Braxton’s financial troubles began in the late 1990s and have included two bankruptcy filings. She has spoken publicly about spending on luxury items and home décor, admitting that these habits contributed to her debt problems. After paying all of her Las Vegas residency vendors, she had to file for bankruptcy again.The list also names a comedian who has been called out by the Los Angeles County District Attorney. He allegedly avoided filing taxes for more than $8 million over five years, resulting in a total of 78 warning notices. The state claims he still owes about $300, 000 in unpaid taxes and has faced six charges related to personal income tax and another six tied to his business activities from 2019 through 2024. If found guilty, he could face up to ten years in prison. Authorities said they apprehended him at his Encino home early Thursday morning. These cases show that even high‑profile individuals are not immune to the state’s tax enforcement. The California Franchise Tax Board is keeping a close eye on those who owe large sums, and the consequences can be severe. The state’s list is updated regularly to reflect new information and legal outcomes.