After months of speculation and rumors, Kevin Costner has finally addressed the behind-the-scenes drama that led to his highly publicized departure from the hit series “Yellowstone.” In a candid interview with Deadline, the actor opened up about the contractual disputes, scheduling conflicts, and alleged mismanagement that ultimately resulted in his exit from the show.
Costner, who portrayed the central character of John Dutton on the Paramount Network series, revealed that he had originally signed a contract for seasons five, six, and seven of “Yellowstone.” However, after negotiations, the contract was revised, splitting season five into parts A and B, with the possibility of a sixth season being discussed.
“They wanted to redo that one, and instead of seasons six and seven, it was 5A and 5B, and maybe we’ll do six,” Costner explained. “They weren’t able to make those.”
Contrary to reports that he prioritized his upcoming film, “Horizon: An American Saga,” over “Yellowstone,” Costner firmly stated, “Yellowstone was first position. I fit [Horizon] into the gaps. They just kept moving their gaps.”
Costner expressed frustration with the way the situation was portrayed, saying, “I haven’t felt good about it the last year, what with the way they’ve talked about it. It wasn’t truthful.” He categorically denied allegations that he wanted to limit his filming hours, calling the claims “bullshit” and “a lie.”
While rumors circulated about a potential feud between Costner and “Yellowstone” creator Taylor Sheridan, the actor dismissed those speculations, stating, “Well, we did on the first one, and that’s why I signed [on to do season 5B]. … I was straight up with him, and he said what we would do, and I believed him, and we didn’t get there.”
Costner placed the blame squarely on Paramount and 101 Studios, accusing them of mismanaging the situation. “It’s just that simple: Paramount and 101 Studios mismanaged this. They had me for five, six, and seven. I agreed to do it. And then they steadily began changing their format.”
Despite the turmoil, Costner expressed openness to returning to “Yellowstone” if the writing and conditions are right. “I’m very open to coming back. If they’ve got so many other things going on, maybe this circles back, and it’s a really cool two seasons. Or end it, if the writing’s there, and I’m happy with it. I’m open to that.”
However, he confirmed that he did not shoot any episodes for the second half of season five, stating, “No. I didn’t shoot 5B. There was no script. And then things imploded.”
As the fate of John Dutton remains uncertain, Costner’s revelations shed light on the behind-the-scenes challenges and miscommunications that led to his departure from one of television’s most popular shows. While the actor appears open to a potential return, it remains to be seen whether the writers and producers can reconcile the situation and provide a satisfying conclusion to Dutton’s story.