David Geffen has formally rejected his ex-husband Donovan Michaels’ breach-of-contract lawsuit, calling the claims “ludicrous and contrived” and “petty gossip and salacious lies” in a response filed in Los Angeles Superior Court. The filing argues Michaels—also known as David Armstrong—mounted a public pressure campaign to extract a settlement and asks the court to dismiss the case with prejudice while awarding legal fees.
Michaels, 32, sued in late July, alleging the 82-year-old entertainment mogul exploited him and promised lifelong support and shared assets during their relationship and marriage. Geffen’s response denies any such agreement existed and says estate and financial records reflect no promises of ongoing support. The document further asserts Geffen provided “kindness, respect, and generosity,” and that Michaels continues to live rent-free in a New York apartment while receiving voluntary monthly payments.
The dispute follows Geffen’s divorce filing earlier this year after a 2023 wedding and no prenuptial agreement. Public records and prior filings indicate both the age gap and the absence of a prenup, with Michaels seeking support in the divorce before bringing a separate civil action.
Michaels’ complaint paints a starkly different portrait, describing an unequal relationship that began online and devolved into coercion, emotional abuse, and control over his appearance and conduct. It asserts an oral agreement for long-term financial support—a type of claim sometimes litigated in California courts—while alleging he was left cut off when the marriage ended. Geffen’s response counters that narrative, accusing Michaels of concealing drug use and infidelity and of charging large sums for luxury goods, elective procedures, and online subscriptions. It also denies that Michaels was rendered homeless or destitute.
Beyond the dueling accounts, the case’s core question is whether an enforceable oral or implied contract ever existed, a theory often labeled a “Marvin” claim in California that has surfaced in high-profile breakups. Geffen’s team has requested a jury trial while moving to toss the suit at an early stage; the court has not set a trial date.
