Star Admits Love Affair (Press, 4 May 1981)
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Summary: Star Admits Love Affair (Press, 4 May 1981)
A legal dispute has emerged involving tennis star Billie Jean King and her former lover, Marilyn Barnett. Barnett, now 33 and a paraplegic, has filed a lawsuit claiming that King owes her lifetime financial support and the title to a Malibu Beach house. This legal action follows King's public admission of a past homosexual affair with Barnett during a news conference where she was accompanied by her husband, Larry King. King openly acknowledged the affair, stating, “I did have an affair with Marilyn Barnett. It has been over for quite some time.” Barnett's lawsuit marks the first palimony case concerning a homosexual relationship, drawing on the precedent set by the Marvin v. Marvin case which held that actors must provide property settlements to former partners after an unmarried relationship. Barnett's lawyer, Joel Ladin, indicated that his client plans to respond to King's disclosures in the coming days. He noted that Barnett felt "pleased and relieved" by King's admission. However, King expressed disappointment over Barnett's decision to bring the lawsuit. She described the actions as “self-destructive” and conveyed concern for others affected by Barnett's choice to pursue legal action. Initially, when Barnett's lawsuit was filed, King's attorney refuted the allegations, characterising them as “untrue and unfounded.” King labeled Barnett as “unstable” and characterised the affair as a mistake for which she is willing to take responsibility. The relationship, according to King, ended several years prior, although she refrained from disclosing specific details regarding the timeline. This case and the surrounding revelations have drawn public attention not only for the personal implications but also for its significance in the legal landscape regarding same-sex relationships and financial support obligations. As developments unfold, both parties are expected to provide further statements, reflecting the continuing complexities of this high-profile legal battle.
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