Leona Helmsley was an American hotelier and real estate developer, known for her role in the luxury hotel industry. She gained fame as the owner of several high-profile properties, including the Helmsley Palace Hotel in New York City. Helmsley was often referred to as the "Queen of Mean" due to her reputedly harsh management style and demanding personality. In 1989, Helmsley was convicted of tax evasion, which led to significant media attention and public scrutiny. Her legal troubles and extravagant lifestyle contributed to her controversial reputation. After her death in 2007, she left a substantial portion of her estate to her beloved dog, Trouble.