Official Shocker: Richard Merk Named in Nora Aunor’s Will — A Final Act of Forgiveness That Stunned the Family

Manila, Philippines — In a revelation that has taken fans and industry insiders by surprise, the official contents of Nora Aunor’s will have finally been disclosed — and one name on the list has shocked everyone.

While many expected her children Ian and Lotlot de Leon, her ex-husband Christopher de Leon, and a few close friends from the entertainment industry to be named in her last will and testament, what truly caught everyone off guard was the inclusion of actor and singer Richard Merk — a former co-star with whom she had a famously rocky past.

The Expected Names

The will lists immediate family members and loyal friends such as Ricky Davao and Bing Loyzaga, individuals who stood by Nora through her decades-long career. Christopher de Leon, though long separated from the Superstar, was also named — a gesture many interpret as a sign of mutual respect and enduring connection.

The Shocking Twist

But the biggest shock came with the unexpected mention of Richard Merk, a figure who once shared the screen — and controversy — with Nora during the 1970s and 1980s. Their relationship, both professional and personal, had its share of turbulence, falling outs, and public disagreements. For years, they were thought to be estranged.

Sources close to the Aunor family say even Nora’s children were surprised. While neither Ian nor Lotlot have publicly spoken against the move, insiders say it took time for them to process this part of their mother’s decision.

A Quiet Reconciliation

According to people close to Nora, the two may have quietly reconciled in the months before her passing. This inclusion is seen as her way of showing that no grudge was too deep to forgive, and no conflict too long-standing to heal. “Nora was a woman of heart,” one close friend said. “And if she found peace before the end, that’s all that matters.”

Richard Merk, upon learning of his inclusion, reportedly broke down in tears. In a short statement, he shared: “I never thought I would be remembered this way. Nora’s forgiveness means more to me than anything.”

Family Reactions

Lotlot de Leon, who is known for her fierce loyalty to her mother, admitted that it was hard to understand at first. “I was surprised, honestly. But this was her wish. She had a big heart, and maybe this was her way of making peace.”

Christopher de Leon, meanwhile, is said to have taken the news with quiet reservation. Given his complicated history with both Nora and Richard, sources say he was not entirely comfortable — but he chose to respect the final decision.

A Legacy Beyond Fame

This revelation highlights Nora Aunor’s enduring legacy not just as a legendary actress, but as a deeply human figure capable of growth, forgiveness, and emotional depth. Even in death, she continues to inspire — not only with her work, but with her values.

Her final act of generosity toward someone once considered estranged is a reminder that reconciliation is possible — and that healing can happen in life’s most unexpected moments.