Kevin Costner’s wife of over 18 years Christine Baumgartner has filed for divorce. The exact reason for their marriage falling apart is not clear.
“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,” Costner’s representative said in a statement to People Magazine. “We ask that his, Christine’s, and their children’s privacy be respected as they navigate this difficult time.”
The Dances with Wolves star wed Baumgartner in Colorado in 2004. They share three children. Costner also has four other children from previous relationships, including with his first wife Cindy Silva, to whom he was married from 1978 to 1994.
Who is Christine Baumgartner?
Baumgartner is a handbag designer and works under the label Cat Bag Couture. In an interview with Denver Post in 2005, she explained how she came
“When I came up with some samples, I showed them to Kevin, and he said they were beautiful and amazing,” she recalled. “He told me I should take it to the next step and he’d help me. I’ve always loved fashion and style, and if you can mix it with function, it’s perfect.”
Costner was still married to Cindy when he originally met Baumgartner. Costner was rehearsing for his 1996 romantic comedy Tin Cup when the two crossed paths on a golf course. They then ran into each other at a restaurant and the two began dating.
“We exchanged numbers, and I told her that I would — did she mind if I called her in two weeks. I did not realize that was like an insult to a woman,” Costner told People Magazine in 2003. He added in a separate interview with the magazine later, “I’m so thankful for Christine as a partner. Our house is like a river: You’ve just got to get into the flow of it.”
According to TMZ, Baumgartner is asking for joint custody of the kids. In a response filed to the divorce on Tuesday, Costner has made it clear that he too would prefer joint custody. They share 3 children together, in the ages of 12, 14, and 15.
