US real estate tycoon ordered to sell $48M London mansion after allegedly failing to pay ex-wife alimony

By Linh Le October 12, 2025 | 09:02 pm PT

Michael Fuchs, an American real estate mogul, has been ordered by a London judge to sell his West London mansion, valued at 36 million pounds (US$48 million), with the proceeds going directly to his ex-wife.

Former French journalist Alvina Collardeau-Fuchs, the ex-wife of American real estate mogul Michael Fuchs, attends the Aby Rosen & Samantha Boardman Dinner at The Dutch on Dec. 5, 2013 in Miami Beach, Florida. Photo by AFP

According to the Daily Mail, Fuchs, 65, split from 44-year-old former French journalist Alvina Collardeau-Fuchs in March 2020 after eight years of marriage.

In 2022, a London judge ruled that Collardeau-Fuchs was entitled to over 28 million pounds in assets and money. That same year, the High Court ordered Fuchs to pay her an annual sum exceeding 3.6 million pounds. Despite these rulings, Fuchs allegedly failed to meet his financial obligations and was accused of attempting to hide assets, including through a "sham" tenancy agreement, while frustrating the enforcement of the divorce order.

Judge Justice Poole, presiding over the latest ruling, criticized Fuchs for his evasive behavior and stated he had "no confidence" that the billionaire would comply with future court orders voluntarily. The judge ordered the sale of the six-storey London home, where Collardeau-Fuchs and their two children still reside, emphasizing that Fuchs had "no grounds" to offer assurances of payment without court intervention.

The London property is described as an "exceptional amenity," featuring five bedrooms, an indoor heated swimming pool, and a full staff including chefs, nannies, and gardeners.

Two additional properties owned by the couple are also slated for sale, with the proceeds again directed to Collardeau-Fuchs. The judge highlighted that selling the properties presents a clear opportunity to secure funds for her, which should not be missed.

Before their divorce, the couple led an opulent lifestyle, with homes spanning The Hamptons, Paris, and London, and a vast art collection—including three Picassos worth millions. Legal disputes over their 24 million pounds art collection have been a significant part of the divorce proceedings.

Fuchs’s wealth primarily comes from real estate, including prime Manhattan holdings. Forbes reported that he stated his net worth exceeded US$1 billion.

Collardeau-Fuchs, who gave up her career with NBC, CBS, CNN, and French Vogue, has stated that she supported Fuchs throughout his business ventures, claiming she was "always by his side."