“Yellowstone” star Kevin Costner has finally been awarded the amount to be paid to his ex-wife, Christine Baumgartner, in child support, and it’s the number he wanted.
Initially ordered to pay $129,755 a month for their three children, the court’s final decision settled at $63,209 a month.
Costner has expressed concern about overpaying for his children but emphasized his desire to provide for them. The Baumgartner attorneys highlight their children’s lavish lifestyle, rooted in their connection to the ocean and the Santa Barbara area with its many amenities.
After the end of their court battle, the actor was spotted in Santa Barbara, enjoying breakfast with his youngest son, marking his first public appearance since the verdict.
Read on to learn more.
Kevin Costner & Christine Baumgartner’s Child Support Battle
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On September 1, Kevin Costner, 68, received a final decision on child support payments to his estranged wife, Christine Baumgartner, after a two-day court hearing in Santa Barbara.
In July, the “Yellowstone” actor was initially ordered to pay $129,755 a month in child support for their three children: Cayden, 16, Hayes, 14, and Grace, 13.
However, Baumgartner, 49, requested an increase to $175,057, later adjusted to $161,592, based on a forensic accountant’s assessment during an Aug. 31 court hearing.
In the divorce proceedings, the judge finally ruled on Friday that Costner will be required to pay $63,209 per month, according to TMZ. This figure is significantly lower than Baumgartner’s initial request of $248,000 per month.
Kevin Costner Argues Child Support ‘Exceeds His Children’s Needs’
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During the court hearing, Costner, represented by his lawyer Laura Wasser, addressed the situation by expressing his regret, saying, “Somehow in this extraordinary world we didn’t make it, and I’m sorry.”
The “Molly’s Game” actress shared that her main concern throughout her relationship with Baumgartner was their children and possible divorce, given her previous experience with a divorce from her first wife, with whom she shared three children. Eventually, Costner and Baumgartner had three children and later divorced.
Costner claims that Baumgartner increased the amount of child support solely because of his financial ability. He argued that the actual amount needed for their children was closer to $51,000 a month.
“My biggest concern is that the court ordered me to pay child support that exceeds my children’s needs and Christine’s needs,” he said.
During his testimony, Costner emphasized his desire to pass his fortune down to his children and asserted, “I’m not hiding money from my wife.”
Christine Baumgartner’s Lawyer Says Ex-Spouses’ Kids Have Luxury ‘In Their DNA’
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Baumgartner’s attorney, John Rydell, emphasized Thursday that the lifestyle enjoyed by the ex-couple’s three children has become ingrained in their lives, stating that it is now “in their DNA.”
While testifying, Baumgartner described how any reduction in their financial situation would affect their children. He mentions their strong connection to the ocean, describing it as their home, and highlights the proximity of the surf garage, just 50 steps from “toes in the water,” each People magazine.
The former handbag designer went further, explaining that it was more than just a place to live; it’s the whole experience. He presented the photo evidence to the court and said, “It’s more than this – it’s an experience.”
Baumgartner emphasized the sense of community they created, often referring to the Santa Barbara compound as “ours.” The residence, as outlined in the court, offers amenities such as a volleyball court, a garden, an infinity pool and two guest houses.
Kevin Costner Is Having Breakfast With His Son
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The day after the trial, Costner was spotted in Santa Barbara, California, enjoying breakfast with his youngest son. The match marks the Oscar winner’s first public appearance following her recent victory in a contentious child support court case.
Costner wore a comfortable ensemble for the outing, including a long-sleeved blue shirt with a front zip, faded jeans and white sneakers. Her blond hair fluttered in the breeze, and she shielded her eyes with dark sunglasses.
Instead, her 14-year-old son Hayes kept it casual in a graphic white T-shirt, jeans and sneakers.
According to Daily MailCostner and his son apparently ate their fill at a restaurant before heading out.
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Source: thtrangdai.edu.vn/en/
