In a surprising turn of events, Christine Baumgartner initiated divorce proceedings against renowned actor Kevin Costner on May 1, 2023, marking the end of their 18-year marriage. However, this high-profile split took an unexpected twist when, in July 2023, the ‘Yellowstone’ star alleged that his former handbag designer spouse had mishandled their finances. Shockingly, she was accused of making unauthorized withdrawals from the family’s accounts, siphoning funds from the household staff, and indulging in personal shopping sprees using credit cards. Costner’s legal team contended that there was substantial evidence indicating that Baumgartner had orchestrated these financial maneuvers well in advance of filing for divorce.
On July 13, 2023, Costner submitted legal documents detailing his wife’s “disturbing proclivity” for appropriating his assets without his consent, both before and after their divorce proceedings began. Additionally, the actor raised eyebrows by revealing that Baumgartner had purchased a high-end automobile mere months prior to their separation, a perplexing departure from their usual practice of leasing vehicles. Supposedly, their prenuptial agreement stipulated that she could retain her personal car in the event of a divorce.
Baumgartner’s extensive list of desired items to take with her upon leaving the marriage included artwork, kitchenware, and other possessions. Costner’s legal counsel contended that Baumgartner was essentially “robbing him blind,” despite the fact that the actor had already transferred a substantial lump sum of $1.5 million to her.
Amidst this contentious dispute, Costner’s attorney attempted to secure an agreement from Baumgartner, preventing her from removing any property from their shared residence before her departure. Regrettably, she declined to sign such an accord. Court records unveiled in June 2023 indicated that the family’s accountant had furnished her with the 2022 income and expense report, an effort aimed at persuading Costner to commit to a monthly child support payment of $248,000.
Baumgartner acknowledged the extraordinary lifestyle they had led and was steadfast in her belief that their children deserved to maintain it. She emphasized the importance of providing a nurturing and joyful home environment while instilling gratitude and family values in their offspring.
According to established guidelines, Costner’s child support obligation for 2022 amounted to $152,681 monthly. However, to sustain their children’s accustomed lifestyle, the actor was now confronted with a monthly payment of $332,264, constituting 60% of their previous family expenses. Baumgartner argued that even this figure fell short of what was needed to uphold their children’s accustomed standard of living, hence her pursuit of a $248,000 monthly child support order.
Emotions ran high during a recent court appearance, with Baumgartner breaking down in tears while providing testimony. On August 31, 2023, Costner and Baumgartner attended a child support hearing in Santa Barbara, where the subject of the actor’s Aspen, Colorado ranch, a summer retreat for their children, triggered an emotional response from his estranged wife. Witnesses noted her distress as she sought a tissue, ultimately necessitating a brief recess ordered by the judge.
Throughout the proceedings, Costner remained composed, attentively observing his wife without diversion. Baumgartner’s lawyer, John Rydell, argued that the extravagant lifestyle was now an integral part of the children’s upbringing, citing the family’s numerous residences and shared sporting interests. Despite Baumgartner’s passionate presentation of photographic evidence, her plea was unsuccessful.
Following the judge’s decision in favor of Costner regarding child support matters, the actor addressed the media, acknowledging that there were no true winners in their protracted legal battle. Having spent a significant portion of their lives together, he perceived their situation as a rapid unraveling, where one moment you’re on top, and the next, vulnerable.
Costner expressed optimism about co-parenting with Baumgartner, recognizing her as an “incredible mom.” His monthly child support obligations remained unchanged, now standing at $63,209 per month. The actor’s focus shifted toward spending more quality time with their children to aid them in navigating the challenges of their parent’s divorce. Admirers and readers celebrated Costner’s victory in the child support dispute, highlighting the complexities of a relationship that had spanned nearly two decades.