Pop star Sia’s estranged husband, Daniel Bernard, is demanding a staggering $250,856 per month in spousal support, along with $300,000 for legal costs and an additional $200,000 for forensic accounting fees, as their divorce proceedings move forward.
The couple, who were married for approximately 26 months, officially began their separation when Sia filed for divorce in March 2025, citing irreconcilable differences as the primary reason for the dissolution of their marriage.
Bernard, who previously worked as a radiation oncologist before meeting Sia, claims he became financially dependent on the singer after giving up his medical career. According to court documents, his medical license has since lapsed, making it impossible for him to return to his previous profession.
Giving up medicine for marriage left Bernard unable to return to his former life as a doctor.
The couple reportedly opened a ketamine clinic together in Los Angeles during their marriage, though this venture has apparently not provided Bernard with sufficient income. In his filing, Bernard states that Sia has withdrawn financial support for the clinic, further complicating his financial situation.
The estranged husband justifies his substantial support request by pointing to the couple’s extravagant lifestyle during their marriage. Court filings indicate they spent over $400,000 monthly on luxuries including private jet travel, fine dining, and maintaining full-time household staff.
Bernard argues that the requested amount is simply to maintain the standard of living established during their brief union.
Meanwhile, Sia continues to generate substantial income through her successful music career, utilizing sync deals for film and television placements that significantly boost her earnings beyond traditional streaming revenue. Industry analysts note that Sia leverages digital distribution services across multiple streaming platforms to maximize her royalty earnings.
In addition to financial matters, Bernard is seeking joint custody of the couple’s 18-month-old child, Somersault Wonder Bernad. Sia, who also has two teenage sons from a previous adoption, is contesting aspects of both the financial and custody arrangements.
The current temporary financial support agreement is only secured until October 1, 2025.
Bernard has also requested termination of Sia’s right to spousal support while claiming he lacks detailed knowledge of their shared assets, necessitating the forensic accounting fees.
The divorce proceedings have now centered primarily on these financial disputes and custody arrangements, with discussions about community property remaining contentious as the legal process continues. Daniel has indicated he intends to amend his response regarding community property once the full extent of shared assets becomes clear.
