In a recent interview on The Jim Richards Show on iHeart Radio, Christopher Yu, Partner at Shulman & Partners LLP, weighed in on the public conversation sparked by celebrity couple Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce. Following speculation about their potential engagement and the massive difference in their reported net worths — Swift at an estimated $1.6 billion and Kelce at $90 million — the discussion turned to prenups and what such an agreement might look like for high-profile individuals. Christopher explained how prenuptial agreements function under Ontario law, what couples can and cannot include, and why they are not only relevant for celebrities but also for everyday couples. His comments underscored the importance of understanding that prenups are simply about creating clear rules around property and support, providing both partners with peace of mind and a strong legal foundation for the future.
“I love it when people come to see me for prenups because I think it’s the step in the right direction right off the bat.”
— Christopher Yu, Partner at Shulman & Partners LLP
The interview began with a look at Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s widely reported wealth disparity and the question of whether a prenup would make sense in such a scenario. Christopher explained that while each jurisdiction has its own rules, in Ontario a prenuptial agreement — also known as a cohabitation agreement or marriage contract — is limited to addressing property and support. Issues relating to children cannot be included.
Christopher noted that for celebrities like Swift and Kelce, a prenup would likely follow a simple principle: what’s yours stays yours and what’s mine stays mine. That could mean Swift retaining full control over her music and business ventures, while Kelce’s earnings from sports and media would remain his. The key, he explained, is laying out clear rules in advance so that both partners feel comfortable and secure.
He further highlighted that prenups are not limited to extraordinary cases. Many people use them to protect homes, pensions, inheritances, or even sentimental assets. In Ontario, it is entirely possible to draft an agreement where everything each party brings into the relationship remains theirs, provided both sides agree and the contract is legally sound.
Christopher also addressed concerns about timing and future assets. Even if wealth has not yet materialized — such as pensions, inheritances, or royalties — a prenup can still establish how those assets will be treated. As Christopher explained, it’s about creating clear ground rules that apply throughout the relationship
Of course, some people resist prenups, believing they imply mistrust or set the stage for divorce. Others may feel the cost is unnecessary if they do not have significant assets. Christopher acknowledged these perspectives but stressed that the most important step is to have the conversation. Understanding what the law provides by default, and deciding whether a custom agreement is a better fit, allows couples to make informed choices.
While the public may be drawn to celebrity wealth and speculation, Christopher made clear that the principles apply equally to everyday couples. Whether the assets are in the millions or much more modest, a prenup can provide clarity, fairness, and peace of mind.
Listen to the full iHeart Radio show segment here.
This media appearance is part of Shulman & Partners LLP’s ongoing contributions to Canadian family law discussions. Explore more of our media features in our In the Media archive.