“Kevin Costner’s Ex Reveals New Romance with Family Friend as Actor Gets Emotional at ‘Horizon’ Cannes Premiere”

Kevin Costner’s ex-wife, Christine Baumgartner, has publicly confirmed her relationship with family friend Joshua Connor. Baumgartner, 50, was seen holding hands with Connor during an outing near her Santa Barbara, Calif., home. This marks the first time the couple has shown public affection since Baumgartner and Costner finalized their divorce in February after a lengthy nine-month legal battle.

In a contrasting scene across the Atlantic, Costner was deeply moved during the Cannes Film Festival as he premiered his western epic, “Horizon: An American Saga.” The film received a nearly 10-minute standing ovation, leaving Costner visibly emotional.

Connor’s name was previously mentioned in the context of Baumgartner and Costner’s child custody payment hearing last year. During the hearing, Costner’s legal team questioned a $20,000 loan from a “boyfriend” identified as Josh. Baumgartner testified that Connor had been a close friend for “7 or 8 years.” When asked if Connor was her boyfriend, Baumgartner responded, “No.”

Baumgartner recounted a trip to Hawaii in March with Connor, his daughter, and a group of friends, explaining that Costner did not join them due to a prior commitment. The Costners funded the vacation home. In July, Baumgartner returned to Hawaii with friends, including Connor and his daughter, who is close friends with Costner’s daughter, Grace, 13. Baumgartner noted that Connor covered the cost of the house.

Regarding claims that Connor had provided financial support, Baumgartner stated, “I can’t remember if it was before or after the trips to Hawaii, but he gave me $20,000.”

Meanwhile, at the Cannes Film Festival, Costner’s premiere of “Horizon” was a poignant moment. Returning to the Croisette for the first time in two decades, Costner was visibly moved by the lengthy ovation. “I’m sorry you had to clap that long for me to understand that I should speak,” Costner said, acknowledging the support of the audience and the dedication of the actors and team behind the film.