It’s been a turbulent time of late for legendary actor Kevin Costner. The past few weeks had witnessed a veritable storm of speculation regarding the future of hit Western series Yellowstone – and Costner’s alleged role in why the show would be ending – but all has paled in comparison when news broke that the actor’s wife of 18 years, Christine Baumgartner, had filed for divorce.
The shock news came last week, with Costner reportedly blindsided by the decision. Baumgartner filed divorce papers last Monday, citing “irreconcilable differences.”
A representative for Costner released a statement at the time reading: “It is with great sadness that circumstances beyond his control have transpired which have resulted in Mr. Costner having to participate in a dissolution of marriage action.”
“We ask that his, Christine’s and their children’s privacy be respected as they navigate this difficult time.”
Costner and Baumgartner married in 2004 and have three children together: sons Cayden, 15, and Hayes, 14, and daughter Grace, 12. According to TMZ, both Costner and Baumgartner are requesting joint custody of their children in the split.
As per Page Six, Oscar-winner Costner had no clue his wife was planning to file for divorce.
“Kevin was very surprised by Christine’s actions, he obviously doesn’t want the divorce and he would take her back,” one friend reportedly said.
“It’s disappointing, he loves her and he loves his children.”
Indeed, latest reports appear to confirm the fact that Baumgartner’s decision to file for divorce was not something she discussed in depth with Costner beforehand.
US Weekly quote an insider as having confirmed Costner is “deeply saddened” by the split and wants to salvage his marriage at all costs.
“He is apparently still trying to save his marriage,” the source told US Weekly.
“Kevin loves his wife and children so this has been very hard on him. He is saying that this is his worst nightmare and he would do anything for his family.”
“Everyone thought Kevin and his wife were super happy, so it’s all surprising,” the insider went on. “He truly loves her and is trying to get her back. He’s been blindsided by this.”
As mentioned, Baumgartner’s divorce filing isn’t the only big shift in Costner’s life just now. Speculation of late has insisted that the future of Yellowstone – the hit show in which Costner has starred as leading man since 2018 – is up in the air.
It’s now been confirmed that the cowboy drama is set to end after the second half of season 5 airs later this year. 68-year-old Costner, it’s said, spent months away from home in order to film Yellowstone in Montana.
Speculation insists his absence may have placed strain on his marriage, though this hasn’t been confirmed by either party.
Separations such as this one are never easy for the parties involved. Our thoughts go out to Kevin and Christine.
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