Channel Seven Star’s Ex-Girlfriend Files Lawsuit After Split

Ryan Phelan's former girlfriend is suing the TV star for tens of thousands of dollars she says he still owes her almost six years after the couple's spectacular break-up.

Phelan split with ballet instructor Chelsea Franklin the day she accused him of assaulting her in their multimillion-dollar home at Frenchs Forest in 's north.

A day earlier, Phelan learnt he was out of a job when the Seven Network its afternoon news and entertainment program, The Daily Edition, had been axed.

Phelan was charged in June 2020 with assault occasioning actual bodily harm and common assault, but the case against him was  

The Daily Mail can reveal Franklin has now launched a 'mercantile law - money lent' civil action against Phelan, by filing a claim in the general division of the  Local Court.

It is understood the claim relates to a property and financial matter allegedly arising from a prior arrangement between Phelan and Franklin, who are both 50.

It is further understood a statement of claim filed in court says the action involves tens of thousands of dollars.  

'I can confirm that I have commenced proceedings in the NSW Local Court in relation to a financial claim,' Franklin told the Daily Mail.

'As the matter is currently before the court, I won't be commenting on specifics, but I am seeking to have it resolved through the appropriate legal process.'

Thrice-married Phelan, who wed sports management company owner Sarah Wade last August, and is now head of media for Harness Racing Victoria, did not

'I'm not speaking about anything to do with that person,' he said. 

It is not suggested Phelan owes Franklin money, only that she has filed a civil suit in the NSW Local Court. 

During his long career at Seven, Phelan appeared on The Daily Edition, The Morning Show, 7News, Sunrise, Weekend Sunrise and covered events such as the 2016 Olympics. 

He was previously involved in Fox Sports' NRL coverage, had stints at Sky Channel, 2GB, ESPN and Network Ten, and hosted the Dally M Medal presentation.

Phelan was an 18-year-old aspiring journalist when he married his first wife, who was also 18 and his childhood sweetheart. The couple had two children and separated in 2001.

By 2005, Phelan had