Luke Grimes’ True Thoughts on Kevin Costner’s Departure from Yellowstone
In today’s television landscape, “Yellowstone” reigns supreme, overshadowing even major competitors like “House of the Dragon.” Taylor Sheridan’s Western drama has solidified its status as the most-watched cable show. However, all good things must eventually come to an end. The second half of the fifth season is set to air later this year, potentially marking the series’ conclusion. A significant factor in this shift is Kevin Costner’s departure from the role of John Dutton, a character he has portrayed since the series began. But how does the rest of the cast feel about this change? Luke Grimes, who plays Kayce Dutton, appears to have a measured perspective on Costner’s exit.
In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Grimes addressed Costner’s controversial departure. He expressed understanding for Costner’s reasons, emphasizing a diplomatic stance on the situation.
“Whatever happened there is unfortunate if it has impacted how the show was supposed to unfold. I know Kevin got busy with his passion projects. At some point, you have to pursue what you love,” Grimes stated.
The passion project in question is “Horizon: An American Saga,” a planned four-film series that Costner is both directing and starring in. The first installment, released earlier this year, struggled at the box office and received lukewarm reviews, leading Warner Bros. to pull the second chapter from its release schedule.
As “Yellowstone” prepares to wrap up without its lead, Grimes remains optimistic about the show’s conclusion. In a subsequent interview with Newsweek, he reassured fans, saying, “It would be unfair for me to speculate too much because the show has been running for seven years with so many developments, both known and unknown to me. What I do know is that the show adapted and managed to finish in a way that I believe will resonate with everyone, despite the challenges.”
The delay in airing the second part of the fifth season has stemmed from both Costner’s exit and the Hollywood strikes. Fans eager to catch up can stream “Yellowstone” on Peacock, or purchase season 5, part 1 on Blu-ray or DVD from Amazon.
There’s also a possibility of a sixth season, with Kelly Reilly and Cole Hauser poised to lead a revamped version of the show. Regardless, Taylor Sheridan and Paramount are busy with multiple spin-offs, including a second season of “1923” and a new project titled “The Madison,” ensuring the franchise’s continuation, albeit without Costner at the helm.
