Kevin Costner’s Divorce Takes a Dramatic Turn as Accusations Fly
In a shocking turn of events, actor Kevin Costner’s divorce proceedings with handbag designer Christine Baumgartner have taken a contentious and messy turn. After 18 years of marriage, Baumgartner filed for divorce in May, citing “irreconcilable differences.” Now, Costner has alleged in legal documents filed on Thursday that his ex-wife has taken his property without his knowledge or consent.
According to TMZ, Costner claims that Baumgartner used one of his employee’s credit cards, traditionally used for Costner family house charges and paid by Costner, to pay her divorce lawyer. Furthermore, Costner accuses Baumgartner of taking cash advances from other credit cards issued to house staff. He also states that she dipped into his property funds to pay for a criminal defense lawyer, although the reason behind the need for one remains unclear.
Costner’s filing also reveals his suspicions that Baumgartner planned the split. Their prenuptial agreement allows her to keep her personal vehicle, which is unusual considering the couple had always leased their cars. However, Baumgartner purchased an expensive car months before the divorce, raising eyebrows and adding to the drama.
This latest development comes just days after a judge tentatively ruled that Costner must pay $129,755 per month in child support. Both Costner and Baumgartner are seeking joint custody of their three children, aged 16, 14, and 13. Initially, Baumgartner requested $248,000 to help maintain the children’s accustomed lifestyle, but later lowered her request to $217,300. Costner, citing the terms of their prenup, argued that he shouldn’t have to pay more than $51,940. He even accused Baumgartner of wanting the money for plastic surgery, adding another layer of tension to the already contentious proceedings.
Aside from financial disputes, the couple has also disagreed on the timeline for Baumgartner’s move out of their shared home. Costner took legal action to have her leave and a judge ruled that she must be gone by the end of July. However, Baumgartner requested a delay until August 15 to find a place to stay in the current rental market.
With the divorce becoming increasingly fraught, it is clear that there is plenty of emotional baggage left behind even after Baumgartner and her belongings are out of the shared home. Only time will tell how this bitter divorce will ultimately be resolved.