‘Dukes of Hazzard’ star John Schneider disputes ex-wife’s $2.3M claim
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More than a decade after their separation, John Schneider and his ex-wife Elvira Schneider are still fighting in court.
Now, with millions of dollars at stake, the “Dukes of Hazzard” star has spoken publicly for the first time, telling Fox News Digital that he doesn’t understand why an ex-wife expects continued financial support after ending their marriage.
“This is a negotiation,” John told Fox News Digital. “Everything is a negotiation.”
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“The Dukes of Hazzard” and country music star John Schneider is speaking out about his ex-wife’s allegations that he owes millions in support of his wife, including retirement and Social Security benefits. (Getty Images)
The beloved television and country music star addressed the dispute while in Washington, D.C., where he performed a 45-minute concert on the Liberty Stage to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary.
When asked about the ongoing court battle, John did not hide his disappointment.
WATCH: ‘DUKES OF HAZZARD’ STAR JOHN SCHNEIDER HOPE HIS EX-WIFE PROPERTY DISPUTE WILL END ‘REALLY SOON’
“I don’t understand why anyone would feel that way… someone who’s been thrown away, right?… If you throw someone away, why do you expect them to continue to be a part of your life in any regard, let alone financially? I don’t understand where the integrity is in that.”
Still, he said he was hopeful that the years-long dispute was nearing an end, adding, “We are trying to resolve this.”
“It’s a shame that people who are together end up like this. And it’s been a long time. I mean, this divorce… She filed for divorce in 2014. God, it’s been 12 years. I mean, I don’t understand it, but you know, cooler heads will prevail and we’ll get through this.”
John Schneider and his ex-wife Elvira Schneider seen in 2007. (Getty Images)
John’s comments come weeks after his second ex-wife, Elvira, claimed in court that he owed more than $2,382,548, including accrued interest on more than $984,000 in unpaid spousal support dating back years, according to court documents obtained by Fox News Digital.
In her filing, Elvira asked the court to award her share of John’s Screen Actors Guild pension and Social Security benefits if she was unable to pay the amount directly.
John steps back.
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John Schneider addressed his ongoing divorce dispute with ex-wife Elvira Schneider while performing at America’s 250th anniversary celebration in Washington, D.C. (Daniel Boczarski/Getty Images for Unbridled Eve)
The actor’s legal response argues that his ex-wife miscalculated the amount she allegedly owed and failed to provide evidence to support her figures, according to court documents.
The former couple got married in 1993. Elvira filed for divorce in 2014 and the divorce was finalized in 2019.
Even as the legal battle continued, John remained focused on performing.
‘DUKES OF HAZZARD’ STAR JOHN SCHNEIDER HOPE THE ALBUM HE WROTE TO ‘HONOR’ HIS LATE WIFE WILL HELP OTHERS WITH THEIR GRIEF
“Dukes of Hazzard” star John Schneider and his wife Dee Dee Sorvino tied the knot in a surprise wedding in Las Vegas. (Getty Images)
The actor traveled to Washington to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, invited for a pride parade, and considered attending the country’s Bicentennial celebration in his youth.
“Wow, it’s an honor because we’re here in D.C. and the current management made us an offer, so that’s really cool. So I’m very excited.”
Schneider recalled visiting Disney World with his high school for the nation’s 200th birthday in 1976.
WATCH: ‘DUKES OF HAZZARD’ STAR JOHN SCHNEIDER PRAISES AMERICA AT NATION’S 250TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
“In 1976, I was 16 and went to Disney World with my high school and celebrated the Bicentennial.”
Now, 50 years later, returning for America’s 250th birthday feels like a full-circle moment, he said.
“So now, 50 years later, to be a part of something else, I can’t believe it, but it’s true… the 250th birthday. And I’m proud of our country, and I’m proud of everything that’s going on right now. I know it’s a little risky for some, but you know, I believe in peace through strength, and we’re in this right now.”
Despite the courtroom drama, John said he is focused on the future and his marriage to wife Dee Dee Sorvino.
Reflecting on love and partnership, he explained that lasting relationships require mutual commitment.
“Partnership is so important. What is the biblical standard? You must be equally yoked.”
He continued, “A relationship is something that’s meant to be… it’s two-sided. There are two people involved and there are two sets of responsibilities. And again, when you have this idea of trying to make someone else’s day better, the first person you want to make their day better should definitely be your partner.”
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John Schneider, Catherine Bach and Tom Wopat are seen in a promotional portrait for “The Dukes of Hazzard,” circa 1980. (Getty Images)
John praised his wife, adding, “I like to think that’s what I do. I know that’s what Dee Dee does, too. I know she puts me first.”
When Fox News Digital asked him what part of life excites him most, he didn’t hesitate.
“That’s definitely it.”
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“We are getting better every day. We have bigger goals every day because we live in this country and we can do this. When I say my best days are ahead of me, I mean it with all my being.”
Other projects the Hollywood actor has previously worked on include “Smallville” and Tyler Perry’s “The Haves and the Have Nots,” as well as being the co-founder of the Children’s Miracle Network.
