‘Dazed and Confused’ actor seeks child support reduction

As the economy continues to struggle, families in Nevada and across the country are finding themselves in situations they did not anticipate. One example of this is the growing number of petitions for reductions in child support that have become increasingly common in the recession. In such trying economic times, it is somewhat reassuring to know that celebrities are also finding themselves resorting to such unanticipated measures due to a loss of income or other financial difficulties.

One such celebrity is actor Jason London, who is best known for his portrayal of Randall ‘Pink’ Floyd in the film “Dazed and Confused”. Recently, London filed a motion in family court seeking a reduction in the child support payments he makes to his ex-wife, who has sole custody of the couple’s 15-year-old daughter.

In his petition, London claims that a job loss has led to a significant decrease in his take-home pay. He also states that a monthly tax liability of $700, which was not considered in the original child support settlement, renders him unable to make his $1,000 monthly child support payments.

When considering a child support reduction, a court will look closely at the financial situation of both parties. If a judge finds that London became voluntarily un- or under-employed, he will likely not receive the requested reduction, as the court may believe that he purposely reduced his income in order to avoid paying child support. However, as an actor, it is likely that London’s employment is in a constant state of fluctuation, and there is no indication that he chose to become unemployed.

Although London and his ex-wife separated some eight years ago, their divorce only became final in March of this year. The child support hearing is set for next month.

Source: MSNBC, “Jason London Seeks Reduction in Child Support,” Josh Grossberg, 8 June 2011