Ronnie Wood facing £50 million divorce?

By Ruth Doherty on Monday 29 September 2008

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Marie Claire News: Ronnie Wood

Ronnie Wood could be facing a £50 million divorce battle as pictures of him enjoying a romantic dinner with Russian Ekaterina Ivanova emerged at the weekend.

The Rolling Stone had dinner with Ekaterina at fashionable London eaterie Locanda Locatelli, and the pair relaxed and giggled away throughout their two-hour rendes-vouz. During the meal, Eka cupped Wood’s face lovingly in her hands and even spoon-fed him ice-cream.

And Ronnie’s wife of 23 years, Jo Wood, is now reportedly gunning for half his £75 million fortune, and half his future earnings, since she has repeatedly saved his career from disappearing under a black cloud of drink and drugs.

Jo is said to have undertaken legal advice over the breakdown of her marriage, and has reportedly been told she’s in a ‘terrifically strong position’.

The pretty blonde has proved pivotal in Ronnie’s career over the years, and has been fundamental in his business success.

She has been on every tour with him since they first met, picking out his outfits and cooking him organic food. She also has a controlling stake in the couple’s finances, acting as Ronnie’s personal management assistant on deals.

What’s more, Jo is the joint director of Ronnie’s music company Rockyarch and company secretary of his paintings business Scream Art.

The pair also own a range of luxury homes, including including a £12 million mansion in Kingston upon Thames, a castle in Clane, County Kildare worth £4.5 million, and a £250,000 cottage in Devon.

Friends told the News of the World that Jo called in lawyers because she feels totally betrayed by Ronnie’s alleged affair.

‘At first she thought his fling with Katia would be over by July,’ said a friend.

'But Ronnie has a different view. He cannot let go of Kat and is sacrificing his marriage to keep her happy.

'The family are backing their mum in this fight. They reckon Ronnie has overstepped the mark. Although the divorce would be painful, Ronnie has undoubtedly let them all down.’

The source added: 'I know Jo was hoping he would dump Katia and return home but that is not going to happen.

'Ronnie and Kat have a real bond. They have the same quirky sense of humour.’

A source close to Jo said there was no divorce proceedings active at this time, despite reports Jo has taken legal advice.