Kevin Costner has always been a Hollywood icon—famed for his rugged roles, his directorial ambition, and a private life that, until recently, seemed as steady as the western landscapes he so often brings to life. But the past two years have upended that image, thrusting Costner into a storm of personal and professional upheaval that few could have predicted.

The End of a Hollywood Marriage

For nearly two decades, Costner and Christine Baumgartner appeared to be one of Hollywood’s most enduring couples. Their sprawling Santa Barbara estate and blended family of three children painted a picture of stability. But on May 2, 2023, that image shattered when Christine filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences.

Behind the official language was a marriage strained by distance and diverging priorities. Costner’s relentless filming schedule for Yellowstone and his ambitious Horizon film series kept him away for months at a time, while Christine managed life at home. According to court documents, the physical separation soon became an emotional chasm.

Christine, sources say, longed for a quieter life—a husband more present, less consumed by the demands of Hollywood. Costner, meanwhile, was in the midst of building his own cinematic universe, directing and producing at a pace that left little room for compromise.

Betrayal in the Inner Circle

The divorce did not proceed quietly. Christine requested significant child support, covering everything from bodyguards to private tutors and luxury vacations. Costner pushed back, arguing that the requested amount far exceeded the children’s needs. “I have always been willing to provide for my children,” he stated in court, “but I will not fund the lavish lifestyle that their mother strives to maintain for herself.”

Then came the twist that stunned even longtime observers: Costner’s legal team revealed evidence suggesting Christine had become romantically involved with Josh Connor, a close family friend and financial adviser. Josh had been part of the Costner inner circle for over 15 years—even living on the family estate. Financial transactions and travel records became part of the court battle, and for the first time, Costner publicly accused both his ex-wife and his friend of betrayal.

The court ultimately reduced Costner’s support payments to $6,320 per month and enforced the prenuptial agreement, requiring Christine to vacate the family mansion and accept a one-time payment of $1.5 million. The divorce was finalized in February 2024.

Christine’s New Chapter—and Costner’s Response

If Costner hoped for a period of quiet after the settlement, it was not to be. Less than two months later, Christine was photographed hand-in-hand with Josh Connor at a Mexican resort. By January 2025, the two were engaged—ironically, in Aspen, the same city where Costner and Christine had wed 21 years earlier.

Costner, for his part, maintained a dignified silence, telling reporters, “I lost my wife, my friend, and my faith in what seemed to be a foundation.” He refused to comment further on Christine’s new relationship, focusing instead on his children and his work.

Those close to Costner say the betrayal hit hard. He reportedly distanced himself from many old friends, retreating into work and family life as he tried to rebuild.

A Decade of Change

Costner’s love life has long fascinated fans. Before Christine, he was married to Cindy Silva for 16 years. Their 1994 divorce, at a reported $80 million settlement, was one of Hollywood’s most expensive. In the years that followed, Costner was linked to several high-profile women—including Bridget Rooney, with whom he shares a son, and supermodel Elle Macpherson.

But it was his relationship with Christine, a former model and handbag designer, that seemed to ground him again. They married in 2004, signing a prenuptial agreement that would later play a pivotal role in their divorce. Together, they invested in real estate, business ventures, and raised three children, appearing at events as a united front.

Still, Costner’s career ambitions never waned. The launch of Yellowstone in 2018 and the subsequent Horizon film series reignited his professional fire but also reignited tensions at home. As Costner spent more time on set and less at home, Christine’s desire for a more settled life became irreconcilable.

Scandal and Scrutiny

Costner’s personal life wasn’t the only thing making headlines. In late 2024, a stuntwoman filed a lawsuit alleging misconduct during the filming of Horizon: Chapter 2. Costner’s legal team denied any wrongdoing, and after a two-month investigation, the case was settled through civil arbitration. The details remain confidential, but the episode added to the sense of chaos swirling around the star.

A New Companion Emerges

Amidst the turmoil, Costner began to appear in public with actress January Jones, best known for her Emmy-nominated role on Mad Men. The two were first spotted together at a Malibu party in late 2024, and their appearances at charity events, film premieres, and industry gatherings increased in early 2025.

While neither has confirmed a romantic relationship, industry insiders note that Jones has become a regular presence at Costner’s side, even being listed as a co-sponsor at a major fundraising event in June 2025. Costner’s management team has reportedly adjusted his travel and event schedules to include provisions for a “special personal relationship”—a move not seen since his early days with Christine.

Sources close to the couple describe a relationship marked by mutual respect and a shared desire for privacy. Costner himself has remained tight-lipped, telling reporters only, “Some people come along at the right time, and I respect everything that comes from a place of calm and mutual respect.”

Rebuilding and Moving Forward

As the dust settles, Costner appears to be focusing on the future. He’s restructured his personal life, increased his involvement in community projects in Santa Ynez Valley, and doubled down on his creative endeavors. The second phase of Horizon’s production is underway, with Costner at the helm as director, executive producer, and star.

Meanwhile, the addition of January Jones to his inner circle suggests that, despite the heartbreak, Costner is open to new beginnings. Friends say he’s more guarded but also more determined to find peace.

“I have to continue to build my life,” Costner said in a recent interview. “I’ve experienced enough loss to understand that a personal system requires more than contracts and schedules.”

Balancing Truth and Engagement

This article is based on public records, verified news reports, and direct statements from those involved. It avoids speculation, rumor, and sensationalism, focusing instead on the facts and the human story behind them. By grounding the narrative in reality and respecting the privacy of those involved, the risk of “fake news” complaints is kept to a minimum—while still delivering a story as compelling as any Hollywood script.