Kevin Costner Reveals Heartbreak: Tears Still Flow After 18 Year-Old Love Affair

Kevin Costner Breaks His Silence: Divorce, Fatherhood, and Finding Solace in “Horizon”

Kevin Costner, the Oscar-winning actor and director beloved for roles in films like Dances with Wolves and Yellowstone, has opened up about one of the most emotionally wrenching periods of his life—his 2023 divorce from Christine Baumgartner, his wife of 18 years. In a rare moment of candor, Costner described the split as a “crushing moment” that left him deeply hurt. Despite the heartbreak, the 70-year-old star emphasized his determination to maintain stability and strength for the sake of their three children: Cayden (17), Hayes (15), and Grace (14).

“I can’t wilt like a daisy,” Costner said in a recent interview. “I have to go forward.” These words encapsulate the actor’s grit and resilience—traits that have helped him endure not only personal upheaval but also professional challenges that would defeat many in the entertainment business.

Throughout their nearly two-decade-long marriage, Costner and Baumgartner presented a seemingly grounded and enduring partnership. But as with many Hollywood romances, pressures eventually mounted. Their separation became a focal point for tabloid coverage in 2023, especially as details emerged regarding custody and finances. Yet Costner, known for his composed demeanor, has chosen not to dwell on the spectacle. Instead, he redirected his energy toward a dream that has fueled him for decades.

At the heart of this personal renaissance lies Horizon: An American Saga, a multi-part Western epic that Costner has labored to bring to the screen since 1988. The ambitious project, which spans generations and follows the turbulent settlement of the American West, has long been close to Costner’s heart. When no studio was willing to take the financial leap, he made the bold decision to self-finance a large portion of the production—investing a staggering $38 million of his own money.

“I’ve been trying to get this film made for over 35 years,” he shared. “There were a lot of doors that didn’t open. But I wasn’t going to stop.” Completing Horizon offered a kind of creative salvation. In the midst of emotional pain, Costner found what he calls a “level of victory” in finally seeing his vision come to life.

But this wasn’t merely a cinematic triumph—it was also a personal one. The act of investing in something meaningful, something bigger than himself, offered a sense of purpose and grounding. “It kept me upright,” he admitted. “It gave me something to pour my heart into when I didn’t know what to do with it.”

Despite the immense effort poured into Horizon, Costner has remained a committed father. Those close to him say that he has prioritized being present for his children, ensuring that their needs remain paramount during this transitional period. “I love being a dad,” Costner has often said, and it’s evident that fatherhood remains one of his most important roles.

When asked about his personal life moving forward, Costner didn’t shy away from the idea of love. “People are supposed to be together,” he said. “I’m not going to let anything harden my heart.” These words reflect an openness that, even in the face of loss, is imbued with hope. As of early 2025, the actor has not been publicly linked to anyone romantically, suggesting a period of reflection and healing rather than haste.

In contrast, Christine Baumgartner appears to have moved on. She is reportedly in a relationship with Josh Connor, a former friend of Costner’s. While the news sparked curiosity among fans and media outlets, Costner has refrained from commenting on her new relationship publicly, maintaining a respectful silence that further underscores his focus on family and creative work.

Costner’s journey is emblematic of the complexities of life in the spotlight: painful personal chapters, bold professional risks, and the ongoing pursuit of purpose and love. He may have been knocked down, but he certainly hasn’t stayed there.

As Horizon prepares to expand its presence in theaters and streaming platforms, audiences may not just be witnessing the revival of a long-dreamt-of film—but also the quiet, steadfast rebirth of the man behind it.

Kevin Costner Breaks His Silence: Divorce, Fatherhood, and Finding Solace in “Horizon” Kevin Costner, the Oscar-winning actor and director beloved for roles in films like Dances with Wolves and Yellowstone, has opened up about one of the most emotionally wrenching periods of his life—his 2023 divorce from Christine Baumgartner, his wife of 18 years. In…