“He’s the One I Love” — Mary Austin Reveals Why She Kept 50% of Freddie Mercury’s Fortune After 3 Promises
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
Mary Austin’s connection to Freddie Mercury was far deeper than most people ever knew. Beyond the public image of the legendary Queen frontman, Mary was his soulmate and closest confidant — the person he trusted above all else. Even after his passing in 1991, her choice to keep half of his multi-million-dollar estate has sparked curiosity and speculation.
Now, more than 30 years later, Mary opens up about the three heartfelt promises she made to Freddie, the reason she holds onto 50% of his fortune, and the enduring love that continues to define their unique bond.
💔 A Love Beyond Labels
Mary met Freddie in the early 1970s when Queen was just beginning to rise. Their romantic relationship evolved into a profound friendship as Freddie embraced his sexuality. Despite their change in status, Freddie called Mary “the love of my life,” a testament to their emotional closeness.
“He was everything to me — except a husband,” Mary said gently. Their connection transcended conventional definitions, rooted in trust, loyalty, and unconditional love.
🏠 The Garden Lodge Promise
When Freddie was diagnosed with AIDS, he began arranging his affairs with care. At the peak of Queen’s success, his estate was worth tens of millions, but rather than dividing it among acquaintances or band members, he entrusted Mary with half — including their cherished home, Garden Lodge.
“He told me, ‘I want you to have it, to keep it as I would,’” Mary recalled. “That was the first promise I made — to protect his sanctuary.”
To this day, Garden Lodge remains a private haven, untouched and filled with Freddie’s spirit, where Mary continues to live quietly.
💎 The Three Promises
Before Freddie’s death, he asked Mary to make three solemn promises — ones she has honored faithfully:
- Take Care of My Home
“It’s yours now,” he said. “Don’t let it fall into hands that don’t love it.” Mary’s care for Garden Lodge preserves Freddie’s memory every day. - Protect My Privacy
Freddie wished for dignity around his illness and death. Mary kept the location of his ashes a secret, ensuring his legacy remains respected and unexploited. - Don’t Let Money Change You
“Don’t let this ruin you, Mary,” he warned. Mary took this to heart, striving to live without guilt despite public misunderstanding about her inheritance.
💰 A Responsibility, Not a Reward
Mary stresses that holding onto Freddie’s fortune is about honoring his wishes, not wealth or status.
“I kept it because Freddie wanted me to,” she said. “It’s a responsibility to carry on his legacy quietly and respectfully. I support those close to him as he wished.”
🌹 An Enduring Connection
More than three decades after Freddie’s passing, Mary lives a life far from the spotlight but filled with remembrance.
“He’s still here with me,” she said softly. “I still talk to him, hoping I’m doing right by him. I never stopped loving him; I just had to let him go.”
🕊️ The Love That Transcends
To the world, Freddie Mercury was a musical legend. To Mary Austin, he was the man who called her “My old faithful” and trusted her above anyone else.
“People may never fully understand us,” she admitted. “But love doesn’t need explanation. It simply is.”
Mary’s story reveals a love that goes beyond romance or fortune — a bond rooted in trust, respect, and a lifelong promise kept.
