Kevin Costner Seeks Closure Following Turbulent Divorce from Christine Baumgartner

Almost a year after Kevin Costner finalized his divorce from Christine Baumgartner, he’s reportedly still grappling with the fallout from their very public split. Baumgartner challenged their prenuptial agreement and has since moved on romantically with neighbor and friend of the “Yellowstone” star, Josh Connor. This quick transition has reportedly upset Costner, who has channeled his energy into his ambitious four-part film project, Horizon: An American Saga.

A source from Life & Style shared that “Kevin feels like he’s been stabbed in the back” and is “craving closure,” especially as he hears about Christine’s happiness. While he was rumored to have had a brief fling with Jewel, he has denied those claims. Costner is said to feel like “it’s his money paying for their new life,” leaving him feeling more like a “bank account” than a former partner.

These emotions may explain why the Oscar-winning actor has established strict dating guidelines post-divorce. According to a second insider, “Kevin’s not opposed to dating an actress, but he wants someone who genuinely seeks love—not someone uncertain about a real relationship.”

In a surprising move, Baumgartner recently downgraded to a more affordable rental home in Montecito, now paying $22,000 a month instead of $40,000, to be closer to Connor, signaling her commitment to her new relationship.

Costner faced additional challenges over the summer when his film underperformed at the box office. He has spoken candidly about the emotional toll of the divorce, describing it as “a crushing moment” during an appearance on CBS Mornings. “It’s powerful and it hurt, but I move forward,” he said. “I have no choice; my children are looking at me. I can’t wilt like a daisy.”