In a surprising turn of events, Tori Spelling and Dean McDermott have finalised their divorce through an exceptionally amicable settlement, choosing to put their children first and tackle their significant financial burdens together.
Putting the Children First
According to documents filed on November 3 and seen by UsWeekly, the former couple have reached a mutual agreement that prioritises the wellbeing of their five children. Both Spelling, 52, and McDermott, 58, have agreed to waive spousal support for each other.
Furthermore, in a move that underscores their commitment to co-parenting, they have also waived formal child support payments. They will share custody of their children: Liam, 18, Stella, 17, Hattie, 14, Finn, 13, and Beau, 8. This marks a significant shift from Spelling's initial filing in March 2024, where she requested sole physical custody, while McDermott had asked for spousal support.
Dividing Assets and Tackling Debts Together
The settlement showcases a remarkably cooperative approach to unravelling their 18-year marriage. Spelling, the Beverly Hills, 90210 alum, will retain her residuals from the hit show, as well as from her podcast and the six books she has authored.
She also keeps half interest in their joint entertainment projects and all interests in her future ventures, including a cookbook and several television shows. The pair are even dividing their collection of vehicles, with Spelling keeping a 2016 Chevrolet Suburban and a 2021 Bronco.
Most notably, the exes have agreed to confront their substantial debts as a team. This includes the $1.7 million in back taxes that has loomed over them for years. They will also split their $37,000 American Express bill and half of the approximately $400,000 owed to City National Bank. Spelling will individually settle a $288,000 loan and another $70,000 loan.
A Testament to Moving Forward Amicably
Spelling addressed the divorce directly on her misSpelling podcast on November 4, describing the process as 'amicable'. She expressed a newfound respect for McDermott, stating, 'While we had our ups and downs and problems throughout our marriage, we had no problems throughout the divorce, which I think is a testament to the two of us and wanting to really step up and be there for the five humans we chose to create out of love.'
This collaborative resolution stands in stark contrast to the public struggles that characterised parts of their marriage, including financial troubles and McDermott's admitted infidelity in 2014. By choosing cooperation over conflict, they have set a new, forward-looking precedent for their family's future.
