Kevin Costner, the beloved star of Paramount's hit series Yellowstone, has announced that he will not be returning for season 5B or beyond. The actor made the announcement via social media on June 21, 2024. Costner stated that after a long year and a half of working on his new project, Horizon: An American Saga, he realized he would not be able to continue with Yellowstone.
Costner's departure from the show comes as a surprise to many fans who have grown accustomed to his portrayal of John Dutton III. The first eight episodes of season 5 aired in late 2022, but due to strikes and writing delays, the second half of the season has yet to premiere. Paramount announced that it will air on November 10, 2024.
Costner's new project, Horizon: An American Saga, is a massive Western epic that he wrote, directed, and stars in. The first two chapters have already been released and Chapters 3 and 4 are still in production. Costner has invested $38 million of his own wealth into the project to pursue his vision of the West.
Despite rumors swirling around for over a year about Costner's potential exit from Yellowstone due to conflicts with Horizon, he had previously stated that he would return if he liked the story and where it was going. However, it seems that his commitment to Horizon has ultimately led him to make the decision not to return.
Costner's departure from Yellowstone is a significant loss for fans of the show. His portrayal of John Dutton III has been a fan favorite and his absence will surely be felt in the second half of season 5. However, it is important to note that this decision was made by Costner himself and not due to any external factors or conflicts with Paramount.
In conclusion, Kevin Costner's announcement that he will not be returning for season 5B or beyond of Yellowstone comes as a surprise to many fans. However, it is important to remember that this decision was made by Costner himself and not due to any external factors or conflicts with Paramount. Fans can look forward to seeing him in his new project, Horizon: An American Saga.