“After Her $248,000 per Month Demand Was Denied in Divorce Settlement, Kevin Costner’s Ex-wife Christine Baumgartner Faced Financial Difficulty”
Kevin Costner and Christine Baumgartner’s divorce significantly impacted both their lives, with Baumgartner experiencing a drastic lifestyle downgrade.
The couple’s split was marked by a difficult and protracted battle over finances. In May 2023, Baumgartner, a well-known designer, filed for divorce citing irreconcilable differences after nearly 20 years of marriage.
Their relationship began in 1999 when they met on a golf course, and they eventually married in September 2004. The Yellowstone star expressed sadness over the end of their marriage, which reportedly suffered as Baumgartner became frustrated with Costner’s heavy work commitments taking precedence over family.
Lifestyle Changes After Divorce
By September 2023, the divorce settlement was finalized amid intense negotiations, particularly about financial matters. Baumgartner initially demanded $248,000 per month in child support, asking that Costner cover all private school tuition, healthcare, and extracurricular expenses for their three children. However, because Costner’s earnings declined in 2023 compared to the previous year, he was unable to meet that figure.
A month later, Baumgartner was awarded $129,755 per month, but ultimately, a judge ruled in Costner’s favor, reducing the support to $63,209 monthly. This significant reduction forced Baumgartner and their children to make considerable adjustments to their lifestyle. They moved into a smaller home, and while all three children previously attended private schools, two are now reportedly enrolled in public schools in Santa Barbara. Baumgartner was also seen driving a Range Rover with worn tires and an expired license plate, signaling the financial strain she faced.
Moving On After Divorce
Their 19-year marriage officially ended in February 2024. Despite the contentious separation, Costner admitted he still holds some affection for Baumgartner. Meanwhile, Baumgartner appears to have moved on, recently seen wearing an engagement ring from financier Josh Connor, a mutual friend of the former couple.
Potential Renegotiation of Divorce Terms
Following news of Baumgartner’s engagement, Costner is reportedly considering reopening the financial settlement. Sources claim he’s monitoring the situation closely, believing that spousal support payments should be adjusted now that Baumgartner has a new partner. “He’s paying Christine a huge monthly sum, but surely that should change when she remarries,” an insider revealed.
Costner himself has faced financial setbacks recently, particularly after his passion project Horizon: An American Saga failed at the box office, leaving him to cover a substantial portion of the production costs.
The future of their financial agreement remains uncertain as Baumgartner embarks on a new chapter in her life with her fiancé.
