Christine Baumgartner and Kevin Costner’s Contentious Divorce: A Battle Over Their $145 Million Home

Christine Baumgartner, Kevin Costner’s ex-wife of 18 years, filed for divorce from him in April, citing ‘irreconcilable differences.’ The Emmy-winning actor claimed his wife was ‘refusing’ to leave their Santa Barbara house after their split, despite a prenuptial agreement stating she would have to vacate within 30 days. Costner emphasized that Baumgartner was reluctant to leave the $145 million seaside property, which includes three houses and two large lots.

The couple had spent 17 years together raising their children in this home before deciding to part ways. In response to Costner’s claims, Baumgartner, through her attorneys, argued that Kevin lacked the right to force her and their children out of the only home they had ever known. Her lawyer stated in court, “This RFO (request for order) seeks to kick Christine and their three children out of the house that the children have lived in for their entire lives…

Although the legal basis for Kevin’s request to kick his wife and children out of their home is all but nonexistent, this is still a matter of critical importance for Christine.” Baumgartner further stated in a June filing that she would be willing to leave their Santa Barbara beach property if Costner agreed to pay her $248,000 per month in child support.

She added, “He canceled one of my credit cards, and substantially reduced my credit limit on my second credit card far below the status quo levels, all without any advance notice to me. Since the initiation of this divorce, I have repeatedly told Kevin (both directly and through counsel) that I would move out once a child support order or agreement was in place. And I have taken steps to demonstrate my commitment to doing so by investigating available housing options,” reports Insider.

Conversely, Costner’s court papers presented a different narrative. According to these documents, “Christine has taken the position that she will not move out of Kevin’s separate property residence unless and until Kevin agrees to various financial demands.” Costner’s attorney, Laura Wasser, noted that the actor had already given Baumgartner $1 million for a new home and an additional $200,000 as part of the prenuptial agreement early in their marriage.

Costner also claimed that Baumgartner had charged $95,000 in legal expenses and a forensic accountant to his credit card without prior notice. As per Insider, court documents revealed that both parties agreed Costner would pay $200,000 toward a down payment on a new house and cover her mortgage, property tax, and insurance for one year.

Reflecting on his previous divorce, Costner mentioned his struggle to find permanent housing and emphasized the importance of having a stable home, especially given his frequent travel for work. This high-profile divorce highlights the complexities and emotional challenges that come with the dissolution of a long-term marriage, especially when significant assets and children’s welfare are involved.