Chris Pine Sues Developer Over $100K Rental Deposit

Actor Chris Pine filed a lawsuit on an unspecified date against luxury Brooklyn developer Carlos Saavedra and his firm Eckstrom, alleging they have failed to refund a $100,000 deposit for a rental deal that did not materialize. The "Star Trek" actor claims the funds were for a short-term rental of a Cobble Hill townhouse. According to the complaint filed in Kings County Superior Court, Pine initially paid $125,000, which included a $50,000 deposit, $50,000 for the first month's rent, and a $25,000 pet deposit. While the pet deposit has been returned, Pine is seeking the remaining $100,000, plus damages and attorney's fees.

Pine was reportedly in New York to film a project with Emma Stone titled "The Catch." The dispute arose in June when negotiations began for the short-term furnished rental of the luxury townhome located at 487 Henry St. The 6,000-square-foot property features five bedrooms, four bathrooms, and extensive renovations by Eckstrom, including a fitness studio, sauna, and cold plunge, along with approximately 2,000 square feet of outdoor space. The property is listed for rent at $69,500 per month and is also available for purchase at $14.25 million.

Russell Wolfson, an attorney representing Saavedra and Eckstrom, stated to Realtor.com that the situation is a "private contractual matter" and that the complaint "tells only one side and does not reflect the complete story." Wolfson expressed confidence that the issue would be resolved through appropriate legal channels. The lawsuit seeks the recovery of the deposit, along with additional costs incurred by Pine due to the developer's alleged failure to return the funds.