In a stunning turn of events, Christine Baumgartner, who shared an 18-year marriage with the renowned actor Kevin Costner, initiated divorce proceedings on May 1, 2023. Shockingly, the star of “Yellowstone” alleged that the former handbag designer had mishandled his finances in July 2023. It is claimed that she used credit cards to withdraw cash from the family residence’s employees and made personal expenditures.
Speculation abounds that Costner’s ex-wife had meticulously planned her actions well before the divorce was formally filed, according to the actor’s legal counsel. On July 13, 2023, Costner submitted legal documents asserting that his former spouse displayed a “troubling propensity” to appropriate his possessions without his consent, both prior to and after their divorce. Astonishingly, it was reported that she purchased an expensive vehicle months ahead of their separation.
This decision left many perplexed, as the couple had never made such a purchase before. Under their prenuptial agreement, Baumgartner was entitled to retain her personal vehicle in the event of a divorce. Additionally, it is rumored that the former fashion designer has a comprehensive list of items she intends to claim, including kitchenware and artwork.
While the actor accuses his ex-wife of “draining his assets,” Costner’s legal representative asserted that she possesses sufficient financial resources, thanks to the $1.5 million lump sum already provided by Costner. The latest legal documents disclose that Baumgartner was asked to sign an agreement promising not to take anything from their shared residence upon her departure, a request she declined. Remarkably, court records indicate that the family accountant provided her with an income and expense report for the year 2022 in June 2023, assisting her in her pursuit of $248,000 per month in child support from Costner.
In an attempt to maintain their children’s accustomed standard of living, guidelines stipulate that Baumgartner’s ex-husband must pay $152,681 monthly in child support, beginning in 2022. Nevertheless, the actor is obliged to contribute $332,264 per month, representing 60% of their family’s expenses. Baumgartner contends that even this amount falls short of what is necessary to sustain their children’s accustomed lifestyle, prompting her to seek a court order for monthly payments of $248,000.
During a recent court appearance, Baumgartner was visibly emotional, shedding tears during her testimony. On August 31, 2023, Costner and Baumgartner attended a child support hearing in a Santa Barbara court. The actor’s ranch in Aspen, Colorado, where their children spent their summers, was discussed during the proceedings.
Allegedly, when Costner’s estranged wife was questioned about the ranch, she became visibly upset and had to pause to collect herself. The court even ordered a five-minute break to allow her to regain composure. One insider claimed that Costner stoically observed his wife, occasionally sipping water. John Rydell, Baumgartner’s attorney, argued in court that their extravagant lifestyle had become ingrained in their children.
During his testimony, Rydell also mentioned the family’s various homes and preferred sports activities. When Baumgartner expressed frustration with the photo evidence presented, she remarked, “It’s so much more than this; it’s an experience,” but her argument did not sway the court’s decision.
Following the judge’s ruling in favor of Costner on the child support issue, he spoke to the media, expressing his belief that there were no true winners in their long-lasting relationship. Costner emphasized the challenges of life’s unpredictability and stated that he and Baumgartner would strive to co-parent effectively, praising her as an “incredible mother.” He confirmed his commitment to maintaining the same monthly child support payment, now set at $63,209.
In response to an article celebrating Costner’s success, one fan expressed support for the actor’s desire to spend more time with his children as they navigate the complexities of divorce. Meanwhile, on September 2, 2023, a commenter on Facebook applauded Costner’s triumph in the child support dispute, expressing relief that Baumgartner did not achieve her financial objectives. Another reader speculated that Baumgartner might have had difficulty recognizing the consequences of her actions.
As emotions run high and the legal battle unfolds, the public watches closely to see how this high-profile divorce saga ultimately concludes.
She’s an idiot. And if she allowed her to think their children were always going to have that lifestyle rather than the real world, she’s an even worse idiot.. This is why people loathe Hollywood extravagances and greed.. Disgusting.
I see Mr. Costner as an honest, fair and just gentleman in their divorced proceeding. If only she did away with the greed and privately discussed the settlement, she would probably have gotten more. The lawyers are laughing all the way to the bank.
I Think she was into Kevin Costner Mostly because of his money. Or so it looks.
Well that really goes both ways, he’s into arm candy, so no big difference, they did have 3 kids together.