Hollywood legend shares health update, greatest regret, and his love for the series that changed everything

A Legacy That Still Matters

Kevin Costner has finally opened up about his painful departure from Yellowstone, his uncertain health, and what he still carries with him — including a regret that moved millions.

In a recent interview with Entertainment Tonight, the 69-year-old Oscar winner revealed he’s “not afraid of death,” but admitted something more vulnerable:
“I’m afraid of not finishing what I started.”

While Costner has officially confirmed he won’t return for Yellowstone’s final season, his voice still echoes in the trailer, offering a haunting message:
“Legacy. You build something worth having… someone is gonna try and take it.”

A Turbulent Farewell to Yellowstone

Once the anchor of Yellowstone as patriarch John Dutton, Costner exited the series in a storm of backstage tension, rumored disputes with showrunner Taylor Sheridan, and what he called “bulls–t drama” from the producers.

In May, he told Deadline that scripts weren’t even ready to film the second half of Season 5. By June, he confirmed on Instagram that he wouldn’t return — not for Season 5, not ever.

“I just want to reach out and let you know… I’m not going to be able to continue,” he said in a heartfelt video message. “I loved it, and I know you loved it.”

From Cowboy to Director — and Back Again?

Although he’s moved on to directing his epic four-part Western film Horizon: An American Saga, Costner isn’t ruling out a return to the Yellowstone universe — someday.

“Some things have a way of circling back,” he told ET. “I haven’t seen that dust trail coming toward me, but I’ve always been open to what I started.”

He believes the story can — and should — continue.
“Make the story about [John’s] kids. It’s not finished.”

Despite Horizon’s underwhelming box office performance, Costner remains passionate about storytelling, especially in the Western genre that helped define his career.

A Confession That Resonates

What hit fans hardest wasn’t just the news — it was the rawness of Costner’s tone. When speaking about mortality, missed chances, and legacy, he stripped away the Hollywood image.

“I love the relationships I’ve been able to develop. And I’ll see you at the movies,” he signed off in his video, offering fans a bittersweet goodbye.