When a billionaire like David Geffen ties the knot, it tends to make headlines.
But now, less than two years after his wedding, the media mogul is calling it quits.
Geffen, 82, has filed for divorce from his much younger husband, David Armstrong, also known by his stage name Donovan Michaels.
A Surprise Split Without a Prenup Shakes Up the Spotlight
One detail that caught many by surprise was the couple’s decision not to sign a prenuptial agreement when they got married in 2023.
Considering Geffen’s immense fortune, estimated at around $8.7 billion by Forbes, skipping a prenup was unexpected.
Despite this, legal experts point out that because Geffen has been retired for 15 years, most of his wealth comes from stocks and equities, which California law considers separate property.
That means Armstrong may not be entitled to much from Geffen’s assets.
Divorce Cited Due to Irreconcilable Differences
The official reason behind the split is “irreconcilable differences.”
Geffen has enlisted high-profile divorce attorney Laura Wasser to handle the proceedings, as reported by TMZ.
Armstrong is expected to receive spousal support for one year, which aligns with California’s rules that support lasts for half the duration of the marriage.
Although the exact amount of spousal support wasn’t disclosed, Geffen has pledged to cover both the spousal payments and Armstrong’s legal fees.
A Private Wedding and Public Appearances
The couple reportedly exchanged vows at a private ceremony in Beverly Hills.
In April, they were seen together arriving at a helipad in New York City, with Geffen sporting a gold wedding band — a clear sign of their union.
The Intriguing Past of David Armstrong aka Donovan Michaels
Armstrong’s background adds a layer of mystery and intrigue.
Growing up in a modest household in Michigan as one of 13 siblings, his journey has been far from typical.
Before meeting Geffen, Armstrong had a colorful and secretive past that included multiple name changes and a stint as a go-go dancer.
He also worked various odd jobs while mingling in New York City’s modeling and nightlife scenes.
From Personal Trainer to Husband
Sources say Armstrong met Geffen in 2020 while working as the billionaire’s personal trainer.
Since then, details about Armstrong’s past have emerged, with stories ranging from hosting online cam shows to attending nude pool parties at gay clubs.
His social media once featured shirtless photos, including announcements about “doing a little camming” for paid viewers.
Name Changes and a Life Reinvented
Originally David Armstrong, he changed his name to Brandon Foster when he moved to Florida in 2014, where he worked as a dancer and promoter at Miami gay clubs.
By 2016 or 2017, after relocating to New York City, he adopted the name Donovan Michaels.
A former girlfriend mentioned she mostly knew him dating women but admitted she wouldn’t be surprised if he dated men too, given his social media presence and the comments he received.
Friends Recall a Man Seeking New Adventures
Friends say Armstrong was always chasing new experiences and determined to improve his life.
This drive perhaps led to his relationship with Geffen, who publicly acknowledged their bond with a now-deleted holiday photo captioned “Merry Christmas indeed!”
Geffen’s Past Relationships and Career Highlights
David Geffen has had a long history of high-profile relationships and a legendary career in the entertainment industry.
He publicly came out as gay in 1992 after years of being linked to celebrities like Cher.
His previous romances also included significant age gaps, notably a six-year relationship with Jeremy Lingvall and a brief fling with Jamie Kuntz, who was 20 at the time.
A Media Mogul’s Legacy in Music and Film
Geffen co-founded iconic labels like Asylum Records and Geffen Records, working with legendary artists such as Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan, Elton John, and Nirvana.
In the 1990s, he teamed up with Jeffrey Katzenberg and Steven Spielberg to launch DreamWorks, cementing his place as a titan in both music and film.
What Comes Next for the Billionaire and His Ex?
As this chapter closes, both David Geffen and David Armstrong are moving on from their brief marriage.
With the divorce proceedings underway and details slowly unfolding, fans and followers will be watching closely to see what the future holds for this high-profile duo.