In an unexpected turn of events, actor Kevin Costner and his wife of 18 years, Christine Settle, have finally reached a settlement in their divorce case. This comes after months of legal back and forth, providing some much-needed closure for both parties involved.

The news of the settlement was first reported by TMZ, taking everyone by surprise considering the acrimonious legal battle that had been going on since Christine filed for divorce on May 1. The couple had been married for nearly two decades and share three children together – Cayden (16), Hayes (14), and Grace (13).

“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,” said a spokesperson for Kevin when Christine initially filed for divorce. The couple had requested privacy during this difficult time.

Over the past four months, Kevin and Christine have had to face each other in court numerous times, negotiating various aspects of their separation. This included determining the timeline of Christine’s move out of their family compound in Santa Barbara, California, as well as settling on child support payments for their children.

In a two-day court case in late August, a judge decided that Kevin would pay Christine a monthly child support amount of $63,209 – a figure closer to Kevin’s proposed amount, rather than the $175,057 Christine and her lawyers had requested. The court took into account the children’s lifestyle and needs when reaching this decision.

Throughout the proceedings, both Kevin and Christine expressed their concerns and hopes for the future. Christine testified that she was considering going back to school to seek a college degree and become more self-sufficient. On the other hand, Kevin shared his worries about the well-being of his children and his desire to spend more time with them during this challenging period.

Before news of the settlement emerged, the former couple was gearing up to appear in court once again in December to discuss the validity of their premarital agreement. This settlement brings their divorce journey to a close, providing them with an opportunity to move forward and start anew.

Despite the difficulties they faced throughout the legal battle, it is hopeful that Kevin and Christine will find peace and happiness in their separate lives. Both individuals have a lot to contemplate and navigate, but with time and support, they can rebuild and thrive.