David Geffen, the 82-year-old billionaire mogul, is making headlines again—but this time for all the wrong reasons.
His split from ex-husband Donovan Michaels, 32, has reportedly turned bitter over one very flashy asset: Geffen’s $590 million superyacht, the Rising Sun.
The divorce, already fraught with tension, allegedly escalated because Geffen refused to leave the lavish vessel to Michaels.
How the Relationship Began
The couple’s story started back in 2016 when Geffen met Michaels—also known as David Armstrong—on SeekingArrangements.com.
Their first date reportedly cost the billionaire $10,000.
Not long after, Geffen suggested Michaels get a passport so he could easily join him aboard his 454-foot yacht, complete with a basketball court, wine cellar, and a 45-member crew.
The yacht became a floating home for the couple, who eventually married in March 2023.
But after just two years, they quietly separated in February, and Geffen filed for divorce in May.
Legal Battle Over Promises and Yacht Ownership
Things got nastier in July when Michaels sued Geffen for breach of contract, claiming he was promised financial security and ownership of the yacht during their marriage.
Court documents allege that Geffen dismissed the idea of giving the yacht to Michaels, reportedly saying he didn’t want a “money suck.”
A source close to Michaels confirmed that discussions about the yacht occurred, and Michaels was reportedly furious upon learning Geffen wouldn’t leave it to him.
The lawsuit paints a grim picture of their relationship, accusing Geffen of using “seduction, control, promises of love, and lavish displays of wealth” to entrap Michaels.
It alleges that Geffen exploited Michaels’ past hardships, including a traumatic upbringing in Michigan’s foster system, and manipulated him into dependence and submission.
Allegations of Emotional and Financial Manipulation
According to the complaint, Michaels shared personal struggles with Geffen, believing he had found someone who could understand and care.
But the lawsuit claims Geffen “weaponized [his] vulnerability” to fulfill personal fantasies and financial gain.
Michaels is accused of giving up his modeling career and independence while Geffen allegedly imposed strict control over his appearance and body, including forcing painful cosmetic treatments.
The documents also suggest that Michaels became both a private sexual object and a public prop, allegedly used to showcase Geffen’s wealth and influence among his elite social circle.
The complaint details episodes where Michaels was ordered to leave their shared home while Geffen attended extravagant parties, leaving him financially unsupported and at risk of homelessness.
Geffen Denies Allegations
Geffen has strongly denied the claims, insisting Michaels was treated like a king.
His attorneys told the Wall Street Journal that Michaels had freedom and access to whatever he wanted, but also note that Geffen never promised him ownership of the yacht or any other assets.
They argue that the couple never shared a bedroom and that Michaels’ lifestyle—high spending, drugs, and multiple relationships—contributed to the marriage breakdown.
Divorce and Financial Protection
Without a prenuptial agreement in place, Geffen reportedly relied on California law, which protects assets and earnings acquired before marriage.
Legal experts suggest that much of his $9 billion fortune remains safe from division, and Michaels would likely not be entitled to his passive income or pre-marriage earnings.
A Glimpse Behind the Glamour
The case offers a rare peek into the drama that can unfold when immense wealth, power, and personal relationships collide.
From superyachts to legal filings, the story highlights how even the most glamorous lives can be complicated—and how promises, real or perceived, can lead to bitter disputes in the world of the ultra-rich.
