Billionaire's Ex-Husband Rejects $50,000 Monthly Support as Inadequate
The divorce proceedings between 82-year-old media mogul David Geffen and his 32-year-old estranged husband David Armstrong have taken a contentious turn, with Armstrong rejecting Geffen's proposed $50,000 monthly spousal support as insufficient.
In court documents filed on Thursday, Armstrong, who also goes by the name Donovan Michaels, argued that the monthly payment fails to reflect the extravagant lifestyle they maintained during their marriage. The younger man claims that Geffen spent over $3 million per month on living expenses while they were together.
Dispute Over Support Duration and Lifestyle
Armstrong is pushing back against what he describes as Geffen's attempt to "aggressively limit" both temporary and permanent financial support. He also rejected Geffen's request that spousal support continue for only a few more months, pointing to the billionaire's vast wealth estimated at $8.9 billion by Forbes.
Contrary to Geffen's claims of retirement, Armstrong insists the 82-year-old remains actively involved as a "venture capitalist, high-level investor, and power broker." The filing suggests Geffen's continued business activities justify longer-term financial support.
Allegations and Legal Counterarguments
Armstrong's legal submission includes serious allegations, claiming he suffered "physical, emotional, and psychological harm" during the relationship. He further alleges that Geffen "solicited Donovan when he was a vulnerable young foster care graduate." These claims have not been litigated in the divorce proceedings.
Geffen's legal team, led by prominent attorney Laura Wasser, has countered these arguments. They revealed that the billionaire has already paid Armstrong $400,000 since their separation and is allowing him to live rent-free in a New York City apartment costing $15,000 monthly.
The legal team accused Armstrong of attempting to delay the divorce process while maintaining that Geffen is working toward a settlement. Geffen initially filed for divorce in August after less than two years of marriage, with the split drawing significant attention due to the absence of a prenuptial agreement.
Armstrong had previously filed a civil suit against Geffen in May but withdrew it last month. His lawyer indicates that remaining financial disputes will now be addressed through mediation rather than courtroom litigation.
