The ongoing divorce case between Australian pop sensation Sia and her estranged husband Daniel Bernard has taken a dramatic turn as the Sia ex demands spousal support worth more than $250,000 per month, according to recent court filings.
The demand has ignited debate across celebrity and legal circles, highlighting the growing scrutiny of high-value divorce settlements in Hollywood. Sia, 49, best known for global hits like Chandelier, Titanium, and Cheap Thrills, filed for divorce in March 2025, citing “irreconcilable differences.”
Sia Ex Demands Spousal Support — The Details Behind the Claim
Court documents obtained by U.S. outlets reveal that Daniel Bernard, a former radiation oncologist, is seeking $250,000 (£187,000 / A$384,000) per month in temporary spousal support.
Bernard argues that he became financially dependent on Sia during their two-year marriage after quitting his medical job to join her in managing a short-lived medical and wellness business. He now claims to have no stable income and says Sia should support him to maintain the “luxurious and upper-class lifestyle” they shared.
The filings mention that the couple regularly spent over $400,000 a month on travel, private jets, luxury holidays, fine dining, and full-time household staff. “We never needed to monitor our living expenses,” Bernard reportedly wrote in his court declaration, adding that Sia was the sole “breadwinner” in the marriage.
The Lifestyle Under Scrutiny
The Sia ex demands spousal support case has captured headlines not only for the high amount requested but also for the glimpse it provides into the couple’s lavish lifestyle.
According to Bernard’s filings, their monthly expenses included:
- Multiple private jet flights for both work and leisure.
- Five-star hotels and villas across Europe and the Pacific.
- Personal chefs, nannies, and assistants employed full-time.
- Designer wardrobes and jewelry purchases exceeding tens of thousands monthly.
- Frequent charity galas and music industry events funded by Sia.
Bernard claims that such a standard of living can’t be maintained without Sia’s continued financial support, insisting that he needs time to rebuild his career and requalify as a doctor — a process he says will take several years.
Sia’s Response and Financial Power
While Sia has yet to comment publicly, insiders close to her team suggest that she will oppose the spousal support amount, arguing that Bernard’s demands are excessive considering the short duration of their marriage.
Sia, whose full name is Sia Furler, has built a massive fortune through songwriting, performing, and producing for top artists including Rihanna, Beyoncé, and Adele. Industry analysts estimate her net worth at $30–35 million.
However, even with that wealth, the Sia ex demands spousal support request represents a major ongoing burden — potentially amounting to $3 million annually if approved by the court.
A Short Marriage, A Big Legal Battle
Sia and Bernard’s relationship began around 2021, culminating in their December 2022 wedding. Less than two years later, the marriage unraveled.
Court filings reveal that Bernard is not only asking for monthly support but also additional compensation to cover legal costs and forensic accounting, implying disputes over shared assets and income.
Legal experts believe this could become one of the most publicized spousal support battles in recent celebrity history — not just for the amount involved but also for its short marriage duration.
Legal Experts Question the Amount
Family law specialists say that while spousal support exists to help one spouse transition financially after divorce, the court will weigh several factors, including marriage length, earning potential, and standard of living.
Attorney Lisa Gardner commented:
“When a marriage lasts only a couple of years, courts typically award transitional support — not indefinite luxury payments. The Sia ex demands spousal support case might be viewed as excessive unless clear dependency is proven.”
If Sia’s legal team can demonstrate that Bernard voluntarily gave up his job and remains capable of working, his argument for lifelong luxury support may weaken considerably.
Public Reaction
Fans have reacted strongly online, with many calling Bernard’s request unreasonable. On social media, hashtags like #TeamSia and #SpousalSupportDrama trended shortly after the story broke.
Supporters praise Sia’s resilience and privacy, while others criticize Bernard’s financial demands. Some fans pointed out that even if Sia funded their lavish life, the marriage’s short timeline makes the $250,000 monthly request seem opportunistic.
The Broader Implications
The Sia ex demands spousal support case highlights how celebrity divorces often expose deeper issues — from wealth imbalance to professional sacrifice. It also raises questions about how luxury lifestyles influence court expectations of “reasonable support.”
In the entertainment industry, where fame and fortune fluctuate quickly, such cases remind both stars and their partners that extravagant living during marriage can later define the financial stakes of separation.
End of a Glamorous Union, Beginning of a Legal Saga
As the court prepares to review Sia and Bernard’s financial disclosures, the world is watching closely. Regardless of the outcome, this case serves as another example of how fame magnifies every personal conflict.
The Sia ex demands spousal support battle will likely continue for months, with both sides pushing to redefine what “fair” looks like in a marriage built on fame, wealth, and artistic success.
Source: BBC News
