Kevin Costner's Double Trouble: Personal Life and Career Hit Rough Patch
The acclaimed actor Kevin Costner, known for his roles in Hollywood blockbusters like "Field of Dreams" and "Dances with Wolves," is reportedly grappling with a tumultuous period in both his personal and professional life. Sources indicate that his enduring marriage to Christine Baumgartner and the success of his hit TV show, "Yellowstone," are both at risk due to his overreaching professional ambitions.
Costner, 68, is reportedly reeling from the shock of divorce papers served by Baumgartner, 49, his wife of 18 years. The couple has three children, Cayden, Hayes, and Grace. Sources report that Baumgartner demanded Costner reduce his work commitments to devote more time to their family, but the actor remained engrossed in his career.
"Despite assuring Christine of a more balanced work schedule, he continued to invest his time in his Civil War project, 'Horizon: An American Saga'," a source revealed.
Unaware of his impending marital crisis, Costner was spotted at a Las Vegas screening party for Horizon, sporting his wedding ring and socializing with attendees, merely two days before Baumgartner filed for divorce.
"Christine grew tired of Kevin's relentless dedication to his career, wealth, and Hollywood stature," an insider shared. Baumgartner has cited "irreconcilable differences" in her filing and has requested joint custody of their children. A prenuptial agreement is in place, as confirmed by Costner's divorce attorney, Laura Wasser.
While representatives for Costner refute these claims, insiders suggest that these developments are part of a series of self-made problems for the actor. His domineering behavior and demanding schedule are said to have disrupted the production of "Yellowstone," causing discontent among the cast and crew.
"His unavailability stalled the production, leaving everyone uncertain about their employment status," another source disclosed.
Costner's friction with the show's producers over his remuneration, despite already being the highest-paid cast member, has also been a bone of contention. Sources report that Costner may not return to "Yellowstone" for a potential sixth season, following the conclusion of the fifth, despite the producers' wishes.
"His decision to leave 'Yellowstone' seems to be a desperate move to salvage his marriage, showing little regard for the impact on the show and its team," an insider suggested. This, coupled with his alleged disputes with show creator Taylor Sheridan over the show's direction, has reportedly resulted in rising resentment within the "Yellowstone" team.
This turbulent period is a grim reminder of Costner's past, whose first marriage to actress Cindy Silva ended amidst rumors of an affair, which he vehemently denied. Now, he's allegedly pleading for Baumgartner's forgiveness, hoping to prevent a similar fate and potential damage to his professional standing.