“Kevin Costner Reflects on Impact of ‘Yellowstone’ as He Announces Departure”
Actor Kevin Costner has announced he will not be returning to “Yellowstone,” expressing his deep affection for the show while acknowledging the challenges that prevent him from continuing.
The “Horizon” director and star shared his decision through an Instagram post on Thursday.
“I just want to reach out and let you know that after this long year and a half working on ‘Horizon,’ and reflecting on ‘Yellowstone’—a series that means so much to me and to you—I’ve come to the realization that I can’t continue with Season 5b or beyond,” Costner wrote. “It was a transformative experience for me, and I cherished every moment of it. I know you did too. I just wanted to let you know that I won’t be returning, but I’m grateful for the connection we’ve built, and I’ll see you at the movies.”
Costner, who portrayed patriarch John Dutton on “Yellowstone,” became a fan favorite in the role. His departure announcement coincides with the return of the second half of Season 5—set to premiere on November 10 on Paramount Network. Production resumed in Montana last month after a hiatus that began in January 2023 due to the writers’ strike, which delayed the show’s conclusion from November 2023.
Speculation about Costner’s future with the show had been mounting, particularly regarding conflicts with his “Horizon” saga.
In a recent interview on “CBS Sunday Morning,” Costner was asked about his plans with “Yellowstone.” When queried if his departure was related to his work on “Horizon,” Costner responded, “No,” and added, “I fulfilled all my contractual obligations with ‘Yellowstone.'”
When asked if he would return under different circumstances, Costner replied, “Yeah, if I liked the story and where it was going, I would consider coming back.”
