Kevin Costner Wins Child Custody Case: Kevin Costner won a court case with his ex-wife Christine Baumgartner over child custody, but he believes there are no winners in such family disputes. Judge Anderle ruled to maintain Costner’s monthly child support payments at $63,209. He rejected Baumgartner’s request to increase the amount to $161,592. Despite the judge’s decision, Costner discussed the emotional toll of the split. He said he can’t run away from some responsibilities and will focus on co-parenting their three children.
The custody battle has been highly emotional for both sides. Costner claimed in court that his split disrupted his life and he required more time with his children. Costner praised Baumgartner as an incredible mom and believed they would successfully co-parent.
During the trial, the actor discussed his finances, which were closely examined. Despite his limited knowledge of his finances, Costner was concerned that his child support payments would deplete his funds. “Currently, my main concern is the court ordering me to pay excessive child support and depleting my finances,” he expressed.Costner said the couple had a prenuptial agreement to avoid bankruptcy. “We did a prenup,” Costner said. He said he wanted to avoid repeating the financial problems from his last marriage. He said his last wish was “to go home with my kids.”
The case exposed the couple’s lavish lifestyle, with a $145 million Carpenteria home and a disputed Aspen ranch. When asked if he would switch homes with Baumgartner, who was told to move into a rental property, Costner said, “It’s tricky.” He said he didn’t want to move into her new home because his children grew up at the Beach Club Compound, which they once shared.Baumgartner requested a higher child support payment. She was asked about her future work plans and her “boyfriend,” who has been a family friend for “seven or eight years.” She cried multiple times during her testimony, particularly when their Aspen ranch was mentioned.
The star offered $51,000/month for their kids, but Baumgartner asked for $248,000. In July, she received $129,755. After 18 years of marriage, Christine Baumgartner filed for divorce in May, citing “irreconcilable differences.”During the two-day sessions, Costner and Baumgartner testified on their marriage, children, and its end. As they move forward, both seem concerned about their children’s well-being despite the ongoing difficulty
