'Jerry Maguire' Sports Agent Files For Bankruptcy In OC Over $1.4M Debt

SANTA ANA (CBS) — A high-profile sports agent whose superstar roster of clients inspired a Hollywood blockbuster has filed for bankruptcy.

KNX 1070's Brian Ping reports Leigh Steinberg, whose clients have included the likes of Troy Aikman and Oscar De La Hoya, was the inspiration for the 1996 film "Jerry Maguire."

Steinberg, 62, filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Santa Ana after an Orange County Superior Court commissioner authorized a bench warrant for Steinberg last month when he failed to appear in court over a $1.4 million debt.

Real estate holder Irvine Company told Steinberg to "show me the money" when court documents alleged he stopped paying rent on his Newport Beach office back in 2009.

Steinberg admitted at the time that he had financial trouble triggered by his 2008 divorce, but was not trying to run away from the law.

"I just lost track while I was in rehab," Steinberg told the Associated Press, who said he has been sober since 2010.

He has faced lawsuits over several unpaid bills ranging from a bank to an apartment complex to his dentist.

Despite his financial and legal challenges, Steinberg remained optimistic about his future.

"I have attempted to make amends for damage my drinking caused to others. I believe that I have many productive years ahead and hope through this process that once again I will be able to make a positive impact on athletes and the world," he said in a statement.

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