In a recent turn of events, Hollywood actor Kevin Costner and his estranged wife, Christine Baumgartner, have reached a settlement in their highly publicized divorce. The couple, who had been embroiled in a contentious legal battle for the past four months, has finally come to an agreement, bringing an end to their 18-year marriage.
According to reports from TMZ, Baumgartner, a model and handbag designer, agreed to the terms of a three-page settlement after being informed by a judge that their prenuptial agreement would be upheld. Had Baumgartner chosen to contest the prenup, she would have been obligated to repay Costner over $1 million and cover his legal fees.
While the specifics of the settlement remain confidential, it has been revealed that Baumgartner's initial request for $850,000 in legal fees has been withdrawn. However, she is set to receive a sum greater than what was initially outlined in their prenuptial agreement.
The couple's divorce proceedings quickly took a bitter turn, with Baumgartner demanding significant financial support, including a hefty $250,000 for child support. Costner and his legal team resisted this demand, suspecting the funds might be used for cosmetic procedures.
In the midst of their legal wrangling, a judge in July ordered Baumgartner to vacate the couple's shared residence. She subsequently relocated to Montecito, California, where she took up residence in a property renting for $40,000 per month.
Despite the tensions, there were moments of relief for both parties. Costner, 68, was initially ordered to pay a monthly child support of $129,000 – a figure substantially higher than what he had proposed. This amount was later reduced to $63,000 per month.
Speaking to Access Hollywood after the child support ruling, Costner expressed his anguish over the situation. "This is a horrible place to be, but this is where we're at," he remarked. Reflecting on the emotional toll the proceedings took on him, he added, "It feels so bad. We're talking about somebody I love on the other side. I just can't."
Following the reduction in her child support payments, Baumgartner had expressed her intention to re-enter the workforce. Whether she still plans to pursue this in light of the recent settlement remains to be seen.
The couple, who share three children, had been a prominent fixture in Hollywood's social circles. Their divorce and the subsequent legal battles have been closely watched by fans and industry insiders alike.
Representatives for both Costner and Baumgartner have yet to comment on the latest developments.