CARPINTERIA, CALIFORNIA: Kevin Costner, who is in the middle of a contentious divorce battle with his estranged wife Christine Baumgartner, is attempting to "outplay" her in their dispute.
Talking about how many believe Baumgartner still has "ammo" she can use against the actor, a source told Radar Online that "Kevin is a chess player, and he will outplay Christine."
"Kevin has a lot of confidence in his attorneys, and he’s staying busy with his career and continues to have a very special relationship with his children. He firmly believes that brighter times are ahead," the source added.
Kevin Costner 'does not hate' his estranged wife Christine Baumgartner
Despite Baumgartner and Costner refusing to talk to each other in person, the 'Let Him Go' actor is maintaining a positive attitude about the case that is yet to be resolved.
"Kevin doesn’t hate Christine, but he does want a clean break. Of course, there are resentments and animosity, but that comes with the territory, and he’s trying not to make it personal," said a source.
"They are only speaking through intermediaries. Kevin would rather use the silent treatment than deal with Christine directly anymore," another source added.
Costner who pays the legal fees associated with the divorce case testified in court that he could not afford child support of $175k per month with his available cash and income.
The actor who reportedly has a fortune of $400 million testified after his estranged wife put forth a motion to increase the child support amount.
The handbag designer was then offered a monthly amount of $129k temporarily. However, the amount was totaled to $175k after she requested an additional $46k.
She told the court that her children Grace, Hayes, and Cayden deserved to live a luxurious lifestyle similar to their parents.
Meanwhile, Costner stated that Baumgartner's requests were based on the income he received from the show 'Yellowstone' in which he was being paid millions.
The actor claimed that since leaving the show after season 5, he no longer receives money from it.
He also added that he has made an investment of $20 million into his upcoming movie 'Horizon'. The judge then reduced the monthly child support amount to $63k.
Costner and Baumgartner signed a prenuptial agreement before their marriage in 2004.
The duo who are expected to return to court in September are yet to finalize their divorce filed on May 1.
