“Kevin Costner to Depart ‘Yellowstone’: Actor Announces Exit from Hit Series”
Kevin Costner has officially confirmed that he will not be returning to Yellowstone, putting an end to months of speculation regarding his departure from the acclaimed Western series created by Taylor Sheridan.
The 69-year-old actor announced his decision via an Instagram video on Thursday. In his message, Costner explained that his focus has shifted entirely to Horizon: An American Saga, his ambitious series of Western films. The first installment of this project premiered at this year’s Cannes Film Festival.
“I just want to reach out and let you know that after a long year and a half dedicated to Horizon and everything that it requires,” Costner said. “I’ve come to realize that I won’t be able to continue with Yellowstone, whether it be for season five or any future seasons.”
Costner expressed his deep connection to Yellowstone, stating, “It was something that really changed me. I loved it, and I know you did too. But I need to step away now. I treasure the relationships I’ve built through the show and look forward to seeing you at the movies.”
As John Dutton, the patriarch of the Dutton family, Costner’s role in Yellowstone has been instrumental in the show’s success and has contributed to his status as one of television’s highest-paid actors. The series has also inspired two prequels: 1883 and 1923.
Currently in its fifth and final season, Yellowstone has been on hiatus since 2022. Only eight of the 14 episodes have aired so far, with production delays attributed to the Hollywood strikes and reported tensions between Costner and the show’s producers over his focus on Horizon.
Costner had previously indicated potential legal disputes over unpaid salary related to a “pay or play” clause in his contract, claiming he was owed $12 million for the unproduced episodes of the second half of season five. He also mentioned issues regarding contract negotiations for additional seasons, citing disagreements over financial and creative terms.
Despite Costner’s recent statements suggesting he might return under certain conditions, he has dedicated himself to Horizon, a project involving his own substantial financial investment. The first film in the series reportedly cost $100 million to produce, with Costner contributing $38 million of his own funds. The second installment is scheduled for release on August 16.
The final six episodes of Yellowstone are currently in production and are slated to air in November.
