“Yellowstone” star Kevin Costner has finally been given an amount to be paid to his ex-wife, Christine Baumgartner, for child support, and it’s the figure he wanted.
Initially ordered to pay $129,755 monthly for their three children, the final court ruling settled on $63,209 monthly.
Costner had expressed concern about paying above his children’s needs but emphasized his desire to provide for them. Baumgartner’s attorney highlighted their children’s lavish lifestyle, rooted in their connection to the ocean and a Santa Barbara compound with numerous amenities.
Following the end of their contentious court battle, the actor was seen in Santa Barbara, enjoying breakfast with his youngest son, marking his first public appearance post-verdict.
Kevin Costner & Christine Baumgartner’s Child Support Battle
On September 1, Kevin Costner, 68, received the final verdict on his child support payments to his estranged wife, Christine Baumgartner, after a two-day court hearing in Santa Barbara.
In July, the “Yellowstone” actor had initially been provisionally ordered to pay $129,755 monthly in child support for their three children: Cayden, 16, Hayes, 14, and Grace, 13.
However, Baumgartner, 49, sought an increase to $175,057, later adjusted to $161,592, based on a forensic accountant’s evaluation during the August 31 court hearing.
In the divorce proceedings, the judge ultimately ruled on Friday that Costner would be required to pay $63,209 monthly, according to TMZ. This figure falls significantly short of Baumgartner’s initial request of $248,000 per month.
Kevin Costner Argued The Child Support Was ‘Above The Needs’ Of His Children
During the court hearing, Costner, represented by his attorney Laura Wasser, addressed the situation by expressing his regrets, saying, “Somehow in this unusual world we didn’t make it, and I’m sorry.”
The “Molly’s Game” actor shared that his primary concern throughout his relationship with Baumgartner was their children and the possibility of divorce, given his previous experience with a divorce from his first wife, with whom he shares three children. Ultimately, Costner and Baumgartner did have three kids and subsequently divorced.
Costner alleged that Baumgartner inflated the child support amount simply because of his financial capability. He argued that the actual amount needed for their children was closer to $51,000 a month.
“My biggest concern is that the court orders me to pay child support that is above the needs of my children and for the needs of Christine,” he said.
During his testimony, Costner emphasized his desire to pass his properties down to his children and asserted, “I don’t hide money from my wife.”
Christine Baumgartner’s Lawyer Says The Former Couple’s Children Have Luxury ‘In Their DNA’
Baumgartner’s attorney, John Rydell, emphasized on Thursday that the lifestyle the former couple’s three children enjoyed has become deeply ingrained in their lives, stating that it’s now “in their DNA.”
While testifying, Baumgartner elaborated on how any reduction in their financial situation would impact their kids. She mentioned their strong connection to the ocean, describing it as their home, and highlighted the surf garage’s proximity, just 50 steps from “toes in the water,” per People magazine.
The former handbag designer went further, explaining that it was more than just a place to live; it was an entire experience. She presented evidentiary photos to the court and said, “It’s so much more than this — it’s an experience.”
Baumgartner emphasized the sense of community they had created, frequently referring to the Santa Barbara compound as “ours.” The residence, as outlined in the court, boasts amenities such as a volleyball court, a garden, an infinity pool, and two guest houses.
Kevin Costner On A Breakfast Date With His Son
A day after the hearing, Costner was spotted in Santa Barbara, California, enjoying breakfast with his youngest son. The outing makes the Oscar winner’s first public appearance following his recent victory in the contentious child support court battle.
Costner sported a comfortable ensemble for the outing, including a long-sleeve blue shirt with a zip front, faded jeans, and white sneakers. His blonde hair fluttered in the gentle breeze, and he shielded his eyes with dark sunglasses.
In contrast, his 14-year-old son, Hayes, kept it casual in a graphic white T-shirt, jeans, and sneakers.
According to the Daily Mail, Costner and his son seemed to have had a full meal at a restaurant before heading out.