Former ‘Real Housewife’ awarded back child support payments

Reality television shows are often accused of manufacturing drama and blowing small issues out of proportion just for their ratings. With the popularity of shows like “Real Housewives of Atlanta,” this may be a pretty successful model for pulling in viewers. However, many of the stars of these shows have a fairly dramatic life off camera, especially when it comes to their family lives and relationships.

Recently, a former star of “Real Housewives of Atlanta” found herself in the middle of a child support dispute with her ex-husband. The pair divorced in 2007 and Sheree Whitfield has since been struggling with collecting support payments from her ex, who played in the NFL at one time. The drama recently unfolded in the courtroom and has reached the finale.

According to reports, Whitfield’s former spouse was 38 months behind in his monthly payments of $2,142 in child support. This added up to more than $80,000 that Whitfield had not received for child care. However, a judge recently ruled that the former offensive lineman has until mid-November to pay his ex $75,000 in back support or face the consequences.

Whitfield’s ex had previously requested to have his monthly payment amount reduced, but a court denied the request. With a compromise in this recent ruling, however, he may be able to get back on track. For the next year, his monthly payments will be lowered to $1,000. However, after the 12 months are up, the amount he owes will go back up to $2,142 every month.

While Whitfield may have left the drama and fighting of reality TV behind, she still has to deal with the challenges that real-life divorce can involve. However, with this recent award, hopefully child support can be one less thing to worry about.

Source: The Huffington Post, “Sheree Whitfield’s Child Support Case Settled: Former ‘Real Housewives of Atlanta’ Star To Receive $75,000 From Ex-Husband,” Oct. 22, 2012