Kevin Costner Reportedly Keeping New Relationship Private After Difficult Period
Kevin Costner Reportedly Dating Kelly Noonan Gores After “Very Dark Time” Post-Divorce
Kevin Costner appears to be stepping into a new chapter of his life with filmmaker Kelly Noonan Gores, following a challenging and highly publicized divorce from his ex-wife, Christine Baumgartner. According to sources close to the star, Costner has found happiness again and is cautiously embracing a budding relationship.
The Yellowstone actor, 70, is reportedly “casually dating” Gores, 46, who is the ex-wife of billionaire Alec Gores. The two sparked romance rumors after making separate—but closely timed—appearances at the JAS Labor Day Experience festival in Snowmass Village near Aspen. Costner, dressed in a sleek black quarter-zip sweater and sunglasses, was spotted enjoying the event, while Gores wore a chic black mini dress, denim jacket, and ankle boots.
Sources say the actor is taking things slow, particularly after what was described as a “very dark time in his life.” Costner finalized his divorce from Baumgartner in February 2024 after 18 years of marriage. The split became increasingly contentious, with Baumgartner initially requesting nearly $250,000 per month in child support. A judge eventually reduced that figure to $63,209.
“Kevin is dating and happy again,” a source told reporters. “He’s been seeing Kelly. They were together in Aspen in late July. He’s tried to keep it very hush-hush because he doesn’t want this to go off the rails.”
Kelly Noonan Gores: A Perfect Match?
Gores, a wellness advocate and filmmaker, shares a 6-year-old daughter named Riley with her ex-husband Alec Gores. She and Costner reportedly have much in common — a love for the outdoors, sports, and long walks with dogs. “She is exactly his type,” said one insider. “She’s chill, low-key, and they both love nature and family. That’s what Kevin needs right now.”
Not Rushing Into Anything — But Not Shying Away Either
Though sparks are reportedly flying, both Costner and Gores are said to be moving carefully. They currently live about 100 miles apart — Costner in Carpinteria and Gores in Manhattan Beach, California — but have been making time to see each other when possible.
“They’ve been spending time together in Colorado and getting to know each other,” a source shared. “They were introduced by a mutual friend, and even if it doesn’t become serious, they’ve formed a strong bond and friendship.”
The source added: “This is very much a wait-and-see situation, but neither of them is running away from the possibility of something meaningful.”
Costner Healing, But Still Believes in Love
Since his divorce, Costner has been linked to a few high-profile names including Jewel, Jennifer Lopez, and Sharon Stone, though nothing serious ever materialized. Now, insiders say he’s approaching his new relationship with “kid gloves,” still healing but hopeful.
“Kevin felt burned by his split from Christine, but he hasn’t stopped believing in love,” the source explained. “If Kelly ends up being that person for him, he’d be very happy.”
Despite his busy schedule — including working on his Horizon film series and dealing with related legal battles — Costner has carved out time to spend with Gores.
“They genuinely enjoy each other’s company,” the source concluded. “There’s definitely something there, and they’re both open to seeing where it goes.”
