*Josiah Bell, the ex-husband of actress Jurnee Smollett, is reportedly seeking a portion of her retirement savings nearly four years after their divorce.
According to reports, Bell has filed a request for 50% of Smollett’s retirement accounts, including her Screen Actors Guild (SAG) pension, for the years they were married—from 2010 to 2019, ESSENCE reports.
Although the former couple finalized their divorce in August 2021, Bell’s new filing could send them back to court.
At the time of their divorce, Smollett agreed to pay Bell nearly $1 million as part of the settlement. Additionally, since their separation in 2019, he has been receiving $7,000 per month in child support and alimony for their son, Hunter Zion Bell.
Under California’s community property laws, assets accumulated during a marriage are generally split equally between both parties. Bell’s latest request suggests he believes he is entitled to a share of Smollett’s retirement earnings from their years together.
Scroll to continue reading
The “Lovecraft Country” actress and Bell, a musician, were longtime friends before marrying in 2010. Their relationship appeared strong for years, and in 2016, they welcomed their son, whom they now co-parent.
“We were best friends before we started even dating, so we had this really great foundation. I think one of the challenging things about any lasting relationship is that you have to be so vulnerable,” Smullett said to The Hollywood Reporter in March 2013.
“I think as human beings we try to hide our flaws and try to present this perfect person, this person we wish we were to our spouse when that causes so many troubles,” she added.
As the legal battle unfolds, it remains to be seen whether Smollett will contest Bell’s claim or reach a new settlement outside of court.
READ MORE FROM EURWEB.COM: Jussie Smollett Opens Up About Directing and Starring in ‘The Lost Holliday’ | EUR Video Exclusive
Sign up for our Free daily newsletter HERE.
