Former Disney Star Erik von Detten Faces Elder Abuse Lawsuit Over $2.1M Gold Coin Scheme

Key points

• Sheila Greenberg, 85, and Norman Greenberg, 97, filed a lawsuit in May 2026 in Los Angeles County Superior Court against Erik von Detten and Rosland Capital.
• The couple alleges they were convinced to invest over $2.1 million of their retirement savings into gold coins that were worth only about $1.3 million, resulting in a loss of approximately $900,000.
• Rosland Capital filed for bankruptcy in July 2026, listing $64 million in liabilities and only $500,000 in assets.
• The creditors’ committee is investigating von Detten’s role in the company’s financial collapse, alleging he played an instrumental part in the business and its failure.
• Von Detten, known for his roles in 'The Princess Diaries' and 'Brink!', has not publicly addressed the lawsuit.

Background

Erik von Detten is a former Disney child star known for his roles in 'The Princess Diaries' and 'Brink!'. He largely retired from acting around 2010 and transitioned into sales and financial services. Rosland Capital, the company he worked for, advertised on Fox News and Newsmax, targeting retirees with gold coin investments. The company reported $151 million in revenues in 2021 but suffered net losses of $24 million from 2022-2025 due to rising gold prices and excessive cash outflows.

How outlets are covering it

Variety and Fox News both report on the lawsuit, emphasizing the allegations of elder abuse and fraud. Fox News provides more detailed financial figures, such as the specific amounts paid by the Greenbergs and the premium they paid for the gold coins. Patch focuses on the local impact, noting the couple's residence in La Jolla, California. All sources agree on the core facts of the lawsuit and the bankruptcy of Rosland Capital, but Fox News provides more granular details about the financial transactions and the couple's claims.

Why it matters

This case highlights the vulnerability of elderly individuals to financial fraud and the potential consequences of high-pressure sales tactics in the financial services industry. It also raises questions about the role of public figures in promoting financial products and the accountability of companies that target vulnerable populations. The bankruptcy of Rosland Capital and the ongoing investigation by the creditors’ committee suggest that the case may have broader implications for the industry and consumer protection.

What to watch

The creditors’ committee is expected to subpoena von Detten as it investigates the failure of Rosland Capital. The lawsuit is likely to proceed to trial, with the Greenbergs seeking compensatory and punitive damages. The outcome of the case could have significant implications for von Detten’s career and the financial services industry.