Romance With New Partner Has Been ‘Grounding’ for Kevin Costner Amid Career ‘Decline’
Kevin Costner Finds Romance With Kelly Noonan Gores ‘Grounding’ Amid Career Challenges
Kevin Costner’s new relationship with Kelly Noonan Gores has reportedly become a “grounding” influence in his life as he navigates a period of career decline.
The actor previously made headlines for alleged confrontational behavior on the set of Yellowstone, which eventually led to him being removed from the show. A source described him as now being in “polite decline mode.”
Costner began dating Gores following his very public split from ex-wife Christine Baumgartner, who has since remarried his former friend Josh Connor.
Inside Kevin Costner’s ‘Grounding’ Romance
Costner and Gores reportedly have a strong bond, which is described as “grounding” for him. The two met through a mutual friend in mid-to-late 2025 and have kept their relationship private and low-key. A source noted that, after his public and costly divorce from Baumgartner, Costner is being cautious. The couple often spends time together when their schedules allow, including quiet moments at his Santa Barbara estate.
Despite their celebrity status, they reportedly enjoy simple pleasures, such as dinners at home, beach walks, and quiet evenings together. A source added that Costner is not currently seeking marriage or a serious relationship.
The Actor’s Split From His Ex-Wife
Costner’s relationship with Gores comes after his 2023 split from Baumgartner, with whom he shares three children: Cayden, Hayes, and Grace. The couple had been married for 18 years. Reflecting on the divorce, Costner called it a “crushing moment” but said he had to move forward for the sake of his children.
“I can’t wilt like a daisy,” he said. “I have to continue to be who I am and keep a special eye on who [my children] are.”
Ex-Wife’s Remarriage
Baumgartner later married Costner’s former friend and neighbor, Josh Connor, a situation sources say still stings him. Financially, Baumgartner initially sought $248,000 in child support, which was later reduced to $63,209. Costner reportedly tries not to dwell on the remarriage but admits part of him wishes things had worked out differently.
Career in ‘Polite Decline Mode’
Sources indicate that Costner is treating 2026 as a potential “redemption year” amid recent negative headlines. Before leaving Yellowstone, he clashed with show creator Taylor Sheridan and some cast members over creative control, leading to tension on set. A source described the situation as a “bit of a power struggle” that left Costner somewhat isolated during filming.
Currently, Costner’s career is slowing, with fewer leading-man opportunities. “No one’s blackballing him, but the phone has stopped ringing for leading-man money,” a source said.
Legal Trouble
Costner also faces legal issues with Western Costume Leasing Company, which is suing him and the producers of his Western biopic Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 2 for more than $400,000. The company claims he failed to pay $134,256.82 for costume rentals and seeks an additional $350,000 in damages, $200,000 in attorney’s fees, and $40,000 in accrued interest.
