Oscar-nominated actor Mickey Rourke has been evicted from his Los Angeles home after a court ruled in favor of his landlord, Eric T. Goldie. The eviction follows months of legal battles stemming from unpaid rent and disputes over the property’s condition. The situation took a peculiar turn earlier this year when a GoFundMe campaign launched to assist Rourke with back rent – totaling over $100,000 – was publicly disavowed by the actor himself.
The legal proceedings, which culminated in a default judgment against Rourke on Monday, reveal a complex situation involving financial obligations and claims of uninhabitable living conditions. The case highlights the challenges faced by both landlords and tenants and the often-public nature of disputes involving high-profile individuals. Rourke’s eviction underscores the importance of maintaining clear communication and fulfilling lease agreements, even amidst disagreements about property maintenance.
Rent Dispute and Court Ruling
According to court records, Rourke signed a lease agreement for the three-bedroom home at 6520 Drexel Ave. In Los Angeles, with rent initially set at $5,200 per month, increasing to $7,000. By the end of last year, Rourke owed landlord Eric Goldie $59,100, including legal fees, Variety reported. Goldie sought possession of the property, and the court granted his request after Rourke did not respond to the complaint or appear in court to defend himself.
The court’s judgment canceled the lease agreement, legally prohibiting Rourke from occupying the residence. People was first to report the news on Tuesday. Rourke’s representatives released a statement explaining that the actor stopped paying rent due to unacceptable living conditions at the property. “For months there were serious problems that repeatedly went unaddressed despite my efforts to have them fixed,” the statement read. “There were ongoing rodent issues that required multiple visits but were never fully resolved, and the bathroom and plumbing frequently did not work.”
Rourke’s Claims and the Disavowed GoFundMe
Rourke maintained that he repeatedly requested repairs but that basic maintenance was never properly addressed. “Withholding rent was not a decision I made lightly,” he stated. “I simply could not continue paying for a house that was in such poor condition after so many attempts to have these issues corrected.” Goldie and his lawyer were not immediately available for comment.
Adding another layer to the situation, a GoFundMe campaign was launched in early January with the goal of raising $100,000 to help Rourke avoid eviction. The campaign cited “health challenges, financial strain, and the quiet toll of being left behind” as reasons for seeking support. But, Rourke quickly and vehemently denied any involvement with the fundraiser, expressing frustration and confusion. “That’s not me, okay?” he reportedly said, adding, “I’d rather, if I needed money, I wouldn’t ask for no f—ing charity. I’d rather stick a gun up my a– and pull the trigger.” He described the campaign as “embarrassing” and stated he prefers to handle his affairs privately.
Previous Residence and Current Status
Prior to the eviction, Rourke was seen removing belongings from the Drexel Avenue property in January, with a U-Haul truck observed at the residence. Page Six reported at the time that the actor was staying in an upscale West Hollywood hotel, with rooms starting at $550 per night.
As of Wednesday, March 11, 2026, the court has officially ordered Rourke’s eviction, bringing the legal dispute to a close. The situation raises questions about the responsibilities of landlords to maintain habitable properties and the rights of tenants to withhold rent when those responsibilities are not met. It remains to be seen what Rourke’s next steps will be regarding housing and how this experience will impact his future endeavors.
The outcome of this case serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding rental agreements and the importance of addressing property maintenance issues promptly and effectively. Further developments regarding Rourke’s living arrangements and any potential legal recourse are expected in the coming weeks.
If you are facing a similar housing dispute, This proves important to seek legal counsel and understand your rights as a tenant or landlord.
