82-year-old billionaire David Geffen’s estranged husband, David Armstrong, is rejecting what he calls an inadequate spousal support offer. The 32-year-old, also known by his professional name Donovan Michaels, claims the media mogul is attempting to limit both temporary and permanent financial support far below the standard they shared during their marriage.
In court documents filed Thursday, Armstrong stated that Geffen’s proposed $50,000 per month is not reflective of the lifestyle he was accustomed to while living with the billionaire. He says that during their marriage, Geffen regularly spent more than $3 million monthly on living expenses. Armstrong argues he has the right to maintain that level of comfort even after their separation.
Armstrong also challenged Geffen’s request that support payments end after only a few more months. He pointed to Geffen’s fortune, estimated by Forbes at $8.9 billion, and said that despite his age, the media titan remains an active investor, venture capitalist, and entertainment power broker rather than a retiree.
In his filing, Armstrong went further, referencing alleged physical, emotional, and psychological harm, claiming that Geffen “solicited him when he was a vulnerable young foster care graduate.” Those claims have not been ruled on in court and remain separate from the current divorce proceedings.
On the other side, Geffen’s attorney Laura Wasser argued that the billionaire has already shown generosity. Wasser noted that Geffen has paid Armstrong over $400,000 since their separation and continues to let him live rent-free in a New York apartment valued at $15,000 per month. She said Geffen has been attempting to reach a fair settlement, while accusing Armstrong of delaying the divorce process.
The high-profile breakup has drawn attention not only because of Geffen’s celebrity status but also due to the absence of a prenuptial agreement. Geffen filed for divorce in August after less than two years of marriage. Armstrong had previously filed a civil suit in May, which he withdrew last month. His attorney said that all remaining financial matters will now be handled through mediation rather than further litigation.
