Hollywood
Kevin Costner’s wife Christine Baumgartner files for divorce
The couple have been married for 18 years and have three children together.
Kevin Costner and Christine Baumgartner are separating. According to reports, Baumgartner has filed for divorce.
The couple wed in 2004 and share three children together. Costner also has four older children from previous relationships.
In a statement to PEOPLE, Costner’s representative said, “It is with great sadness that circumstances beyond his control have transpired which have resulted in Mr. Costner having to participate in a dissolution of marriage action.”
“We ask that his, Christine’s, and their children’s privacy be respected as they navigate this difficult time,” the rep added.
According to court documents obtained by TMZ, Baumgartner cited, “irreconcilable differences,” as the reason for the split. She is also seeking joint custody of the children.
Costner filed his response on Tuesday and is also seeking joint custody. Baumgartner is not asking for spousal support. According to TMZ, there is likely a prenup in place already.
In November, Costner spoke fondly of his wife, telling People, “My wife does things that just completely... It just helps. The house is prettier because of her. Everything is warmer because of her. There’s these little things that she does and I think it’s the power of love, but that she makes her home that way.”
Wanting a family
Baumgartner was upfront with Costner about wanting to start a family. Costner revealed to Extra that on day one of their relationship, Baumgartner told him, “If you’re going to be with me, you need to know that kids are at the end of the road for me with you, if that’s going to happen.”
The duo dated for six years before she gave Costner an ultimatum. “Finally, there came a moment where, maybe this doesn’t go forward,” Costner said before he decided, “I’m not going to lose her because I’m afraid.”
A seemingly happy relationship
Previously, the ‘Yellowstone’ actor had nothing but praise for his wife. When talking to People about his relationship during the pandemic, he said, “Our partnership has really come into focus about what we do for each other and how we deal with our family.”
“Our house is like a river: You’ve just got to get into the flow of it,” he added. “And whatever you thought it was going to be, maybe it still can, but it’s going to have to work with what the day brings.”