In an unexpected turn of events, Kevin Costner and his wife of more than 19 years, Jennifer, have decided to part ways. The news came as a shock to Costner, who is currently engrossed in his work on the upcoming western film Horizon.
According to sources close to the couple, Christine Baumgartner, the one who initiated the divorce proceedings, purportedly conveyed to her husband that if he persisted in his prolonged absences from home due to work commitments, she would opt to end their marriage.
Baumgartner reportedly found Costner’s extended absences “painful,” longing for him to spend more quality time with their family in Santa Barbara. Sources close to the couple revealed that Costner’s frequent filming commitments kept him away from home for extended periods, causing considerable distress for Baumgartner.
“Kevin isn’t around much during filming,” one source disclosed, highlighting the strain it placed on their relationship. Another insider mentioned that while Costner was aware of his wife’s unhappiness, her decision to file for divorce caught him off guard.
Baumgartner expressed discontent with Costner’s deep involvement in his latest project, Horizon, which has been consuming his attention since last year. “Christine doesn’t want him to throw himself into another project. He has been obsessed with filming Horizon since last year. She wasn’t happy about it,” the source noted.
Costner’s career has often taken precedence over his family life, with his professional commitments overshadowing his domestic responsibilities. “At times, his career has taken precedence over his home life,” acknowledged another source.
The allure of success and the excitement surrounding his new project likely diverted Costner’s focus away from his family more than he realized. The imbalance between his career and personal life caused tension within their marriage, with no immediate signs of improvement. “All of this success and excitement over the new project probably took his attention away from his family more than he realized. Since it didn’t look like that would change and likely could get worse, it caused tension at home,” the source concluded.
Costner and Baumgartner’s relationship began in 2000, culminating in marriage four years later. Together, they have three children, all still in their youth. However, this isn’t Costner’s first marriage. He was previously married to his college sweetheart, Cindy Silva. Silva supported Costner’s aspirations of stardom by juggling multiple jobs, including portraying Snow White at Disneyland, while Costner navigated the early stages of his acting career. However, as Costner’s career gained momentum, tensions arose, fueled by concerns over his on-screen chemistry with female co-stars and rumors of infidelity. Eventually, the strain led to their separation and a tumultuous divorce.
The divorce took a toll on Costner, leaving him feeling isolated for an extended period, despite his status as one of Hollywood’s most recognizable figures.
Until he crossed paths with Baumgartner. Initially, the couple dated but eventually parted ways due to Costner’s reluctance to have more children. In response, Baumgartner reportedly stated, “I’m going to wait for you, but not for long. Come back to me when you’ve come to your senses,” and Costner eventually did.
A spokesperson for the actor expressed, “It is with great sadness that circumstances beyond Mr. Costner’s control have transpired, resulting in Mr. Costner having to participate in a dissolution of marriage action.” The statement continued, “We ask that his, Christine’s, and their children’s privacy be respected as they navigate this difficult time.”
Baumgartner reportedly has not sought spousal support in the divorce proceedings. Costner’s response to the filing was handled by Laura Wasser, who stated, “Spousal support to be payable to petitioner pursuant to the terms of the parties’ Premarital Agreement,” suggesting the existence of a prenuptial agreement between the couple.
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