“Modern Family” co-creator Steven Levitan is denying allegations that he’s been abusive to his estranged wife, after Krista Levitan filed a petition for domestic violence restraining orders against him.
“I have never assaulted my wife. I have never threatened to assault my wife. These allegations are abusive, false and attempt to smear my reputation,” the “Modern Family” co-creator said in a declaration filed with the Superior Court of California in Los Angeles.
Levitan went on to claim: “Petitioner and I disagreed about the responsibility for our problems and how they might be resolved. Petitioner’s reaction to any disagreement has taken the form of accusations of emotional abuse and threats of seeking restraining orders. She threatens me with false claims of domestic violence and protection order as a weapon to get her way.”
Krista Levitan’s attorney filed papers last week claiming that the “Modern Family” boss had subjected her to harassment, intimidation and abuse.
“Respondent has harassed and intimidated Petitioner and verbally abused her on a number of occasions,” papers filed read. “Respondent frequently instigated arguments with Petitioner, yelling at her, and threatening her with his intimidation and threats. Respondent’s abusive behavior has continued after separation and has expanded to sending emails and text messages to Petitioner’s family and to the parties’ three children in a further attempt to harass and intimidate Petitioner.”
TheWrap has reached out to Krista Levitan’s attorney for comment on Steven Levitan’s denial.
According to People, the couple, who have been married for 23 years and have three adult children, separated Dec. 31, with Krista filing for divorce Jan. 6, citing irreconcilable differences.
A hearing on the restraining order is scheduled for April 15.
Pamela Chelin contributed to this report.