Tim Burton, director of blockbuster movies such as Edward Scissorhands, Nightmare Before Christmas and Batman, and his wife Helena Carter have separated after 13 years of marriage. Carter, a talented actress in her own right, confirmed the couple’s separation via a statement from her representative. According to the statement released by Carter, she and Burton “separated amicably earlier this year and have continued to be friends and co-parent their children.”
Although there has been no official word on what led to the couple’s separation, there have been rumors over the last few years regarding trouble in the couple’s marriage. For instance, only last year, photos surfaced of Burton appearing to kiss another woman. At that time, Carter denied there was any infidelity in the relationship, and to date, neither Burton nor Carter have pointed to infidelity as the cause of their breakup.
As both Carter and Burton have found success in the film industry, it is likely that neither spouse will seek spousal support. However, the division of property will, in all probability, be a major issue of divorce. The couple has two children together, an 11 year old son and a 7 year old daughter. Both children are minors, so it will be necessary for Burton and Carter to either reach an agreement concerning child custody and child support, or seek a court’s guidance regarding custodial arrangements and child support. Even though the issue of child custody tends to be one of the most contentious issues of divorce, Carter’s statement indicates that both parents are already focusing on successfully co-parenting their children. So, hopefully, Carter and Burton come to a mutual agreement concerning the issues of their divorce and continue to protect the best interests of their children.