In 2024, Kevin Costner continued his role as John Dutton in the first half of “Yellowstone’s” fifth season before officially wrapping up his time on the show. Outside of acting, he’s inspiring fellow actors and focusing on his role as a father.
In the “Yellowstone” series, Kevin Costner plays John Dutton, the governor of Montana who faces challenges alongside his family on a ranch. The show began airing in 2018, with the fifth season premiering two years later.
Kevin Costner at the premiere “Yellowstone” at Paramount Studios on June 11, 2018, in Hollywood, California | Source: Getty Images
By 2024, rumors circulated about Kevin leaving the show, and in June 2024, he confirmed in a short Instagram clip that he wouldn’t reprise his role in “Yellowstone” season 5B. He explained that, after spending a year and a half on his four-part saga “Horizon,” he couldn’t continue with the series.
Reflecting on “Yellowstone,” he admitted, “It was something that really changed me. I loved it. And I know you loved it.” He added, “And I just wanted to let you know that I won’t be returning, and I love the relationship we’ve been able to develop, and I’ll see you at the movies.”
In an interview, Kevin elaborated, “Simply with all the questions that were being asked (about ‘Yellowstone’), the longer I thought about that … I just wanted to say that this is a stepping-off point.” He continued, “Whatever I’d hoped for maybe was not in the cards. I don’t want to keep saying, ‘Yeah, I hope I can do it.’ That’s drifted to a place that I don’t think is realistic anymore.”
Rumors had even suggested a 2023 feud between Kevin, the show’s network, Paramount Network, and “Yellowstone’s” co-creator and writer, Taylor Sheridan. These rumors, which were later denied, claimed the actor had refused to film for more than one week for season 5B.
The star clarified that he didn’t film 5B because there was no script ready at the scheduled time. He feels what people are hearing isn’t balanced information, noting that everyone is “reading one version [of this behind-the-scenes drama] for a year and a half.”
Following his video, in a different interview Kevin revealed that he was tired of hoping he’d return to “Yellowstone.” Now, his energy is focused on “Horizon.” One of his “Yellowstone” co-stars offered a hint about what fans can expect in the new season.
What to Expect in Season 5 of ‘Yellowstone’
“Yellowstone” serves as a follow-up to the prequel “1883,” with “1923” announced as its sequel. On December 18, 2022, the spinoff premiered featuring stars like Helen Mirren and Harrison Ford, while season five of “Yellowstone” debuted on November 27, 2022.
The season follows the Dutton family as they use their political power to protect their ranch. In March 2021, Kevin’s co-star, Cole Hauser, hinted at some upcoming plot elements in an interview but remained vague.
The actor teased fans by saying the season would be fantastic. He shared that season five would pick up from the dramatic ending of season four, though he couldn’t reveal much.
Kevin’s co-star, who plays Rip Wheeler, his on-screen son-in-law, said fans would be “happily surprised.” During his time on the show, the actor bonded with Cole, who holds him in high esteem.
Kevin Costner and Cole Hauser seen on May 30, 2019, in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images
Cole’s Bond with Kevin
Cole once opened up about how close he’s become with Kevin. Sharing what impressed him about the seasoned actor, the actor said it’s the kind of person Kevin is. He revealed that, beyond being a creative spirit and an actor, the iconic star is just a regular person.
The actor also noted that they’re both from the same area in California, Kevin is from Ventura and he is from Santa Barbara. He’s gotten to know his co-star better over the years they’ve worked closely together.
Cole added, “I mean, I’ve learned a lot about just being a gentleman on set and just a class act…” Kevin’s onscreen son-in-law also noted that while the legendary star is a family, he too has three children and a “wonderful” wife.
Cole also described Kevin as a role model, praising his storytelling, creativity, and drive to push boundaries as a creator, calling him “inspiring.” Despite his success in the entertainment world, Kevin prioritizes being a dedicated parent.
Kevin Tries to Be ‘Like Any Other Parent’ for His Seven Children
Kevin was married to his ex-wife, Christine, for 18 years as of November 2022, and they share three children: sons Cayden and Hayes, and daughter Grace. The actor also has four older children: sons Joe and Liam, and daughters Annie and Lily, from previous relationships.
Kevin Costner, Christine Baumgartner, Grace Avery Costner, Hayes Logan Costner, and Cayden Wyatt Costner at the world premiere of “McFarland, USA” on February 9, 2015, in Hollywood, California | Source: Getty Images
The “Yellowstone One-Fifty” docuseries star has said that fatherhood is one of his greatest joys. Kevin also shared parenting advice, encouraging parents to engage with their young children and teach them independence as they naturally grow toward it.
The actor mentioned that he tries to be like any other parent, figuring things out as he goes. Speaking about his then-teenage son, Hayes, Kevin revealed that his son is following in his footsteps.
Hayes stars in “Horizon,” Kevin’s four-part Western saga, which his father created and financed. The actor expressed pride in his son’s talent and joked that he cast Hayes specifically to spend more time together. He encourages his younger children to join him on set as well.
Kevin Costner, Christine Baumgartner, and Cayden, Hayes, and Grace at the Los Angeles premiere of “The Art of Racing In The Rain” on August 1, 2019, in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images
When he’s not working, Kevin Costner spends quality time with his family. He describes himself as a provider, adding, “I’m a father and I’m a husband, but the world doesn’t revolve around me.”
The actor also shared, “When I’m not making a movie, I’m living and on the freeway with my wife, getting the kids to their stuff or waiting for them to come out of a party.”
