Maria Bello Files for Divorce from Michelin-Star Chef Dominique Crenn

Hold onto your coffee cup—this one’s brewing drama! Maria Bello has officially filed for divorce from acclaimed chef Dominique Crenn, according to court documents filed May 28 in San Francisco’s Superior Court. Our over-caffeinated aunt senses there’s much more simmering beneath the surface of this high-profile split. Bello, best known for powerhouse roles in A History of Violence and NCIS, and Crenn, the groundbreaking three-Michelin-star chef behind Atelier Crenn in San Francisco, tied the knot in October 2022, sparking cheers from foodie fans and Hollywood insiders alike. But now, barely two-and-a-half years later, the duo are calling it quits—and no, there’s no messy custody battle over kiddos, because they didn’t have any.

Sources like TMZ.com first spotted the paperwork, which lists “irreconcilable differences” as the sole reason for the split. Corroborating reports from People magazine and E! News confirm that Bello checked the box indicating no minor children are involved and that spousal support was not requested. Talk about swift moves—Maria’s legal team seems determined to keep things clean and quick. Public records show Bello resides in San Francisco County, and since both parties listed the same address on the petition, it appears they were living together up until the filing.

Now, I know what you’re thinking: were there warning signs? Gossip whispers had noted that Bello and Crenn, whose whirlwind romance began in early 2021, were juggling busy careers—Maria filming projects in L.A. while Dominique helmed her world-renowned restaurants. Insider chatter (nodded to by E! News and corroborated by The Hollywood Reporter) suggested that travel demands and creative clashes put strain on their marriage. Yet neither star ever publicly addressed relationship troubles—until now.

What’s the fallout? Fans are heartbroken on social media, flooding both stars’ Instagram comments with supportive emojis and “Stay strong!” messages. Industry pals are reportedly rallying around Bello, who’s rumored to be lining up new acting gigs and charity appearances in L.A. Meanwhile, Crenn is said to be focusing on her restaurants—Atelier Crenn, Petit Crenn, and Bar Crenn—stirring up new menus and perhaps a side of separation-inspired inspiration.

As for the legal timeline, once the petition is served, California’s mandatory six-month waiting period kicks in before the divorce can be finalized. That gives Maria and Dominique plenty of time to sort out final asset division—hello, real estate in Pacific Heights—and figure out post-split dynamics. Will they remain friends? Business collaborators? Your Aunt Who’s Had Too Much Coffee has her popcorn ready.

Sources: Celebrity Storm and TMZ.com, People.com, E! News, The Hollywood Reporter
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed