In the past, when a couple divorced in Texas or elsewhere, the general assumption was that the husband earned more money than his wife and therefore, the wife would receive spousal support (also known as alimony or spousal maintenance) from her ex-husband upon their divorce. However, as more married couples are both earning paychecks, it is increasingly common for a wife to pay spousal support to her ex-husband. When either or both of the spouses are Hollywood celebrities, it may be that the wife is a bigger star making more money, meaning the court will be more likely to award spousal support to the husband.
Such is the case for Alicia Silverstone, star of the 1995 movie “Clueless,” who recently saw her divorce from Christopher Jarecki finalized in court. The actress had filed for divorce in May after an unannounced two-year separation. According to Silverstone’s representative, the decision to split was mutual and the couple remains good friends with one another. According to court documents, the couple will share custody of their seven-year-old son.
Perhaps the most remarkable feature of the settlement, however, is that the court has ordered Silverstone to pay Jarecki $12,000 a month in spousal support for the next six years, until Jan. 31, 2024.
The couple had been married for 13 years, having tied the knot in a private ceremony at Lake Tahoe in June 2005. Silverstone’s current state of mind is unknown, but she reported in June, shortly after filing, that everything was good and she was doing great. Those with questions or concerns about spousal support, or divorce in general, may find it helpful to consult an attorney.