A Divorce Filled With Suspicion

When Christine Baumgartner filed for divorce from Kevin Costner in 2023, the split quickly turned ugly. Though Costner’s rep claimed the divorce happened due to “circumstances beyond his control,” fans immediately began speculating that the actor had been unfaithful.

Fueling the suspicions? Baumgartner’s legal team reportedly demanded documents relating to any “extramarital relationships,” suggesting there was reason to dig. It didn’t help that Costner’s Yellowstone character, John Dutton, had a steamy on-screen romance with Piper Perabo’s Summer Higgins—leading some to wonder if art was imitating life.

A Mystery Pregnancy Rumor Gains Traction

The most explosive allegation? That Costner had impregnated a co-worker on the set of Yellowstone. Though the identity of the alleged woman remains unknown, the internet ran wild with speculation.

Some fans claimed this was the real reason behind Costner’s rocky exit from the show and his creative falling out with showrunner Taylor Sheridan. The gossip hit a boiling point online, with posts suggesting that Costner wasn’t just clashing with production—it was all to avoid scandal.

Costner’s reps swiftly shut it down, calling the rumor “absolutely untrue” and “total BS.” Still, it didn’t stop the chatter.

Did Yellowstone Doom the Marriage?

Costner’s role on Yellowstone may have been the final straw in his marriage. According to sources, Baumgartner never wanted him to take the part in the first place. Months of family discussions preceded his decision, and when filming ramped up, long periods away from home strained their relationship further.

At one point, Costner’s team even asked if the show could relocate production to California, but the idea was rejected. That time apart proved damaging. Baumgartner reportedly felt he chose work over family, a choice she couldn’t forgive.

Now, as Costner dives into his next project, Horizon—a four-part Western film series—he’s once again facing long stretches on set.

Finger-Pointing on Both Sides

While infidelity rumors dogged Costner, his legal team also hinted that Baumgartner may not have been entirely innocent. One theory alleged she had grown close to Daniel Starr, a former tenant on their property. Starr flatly denied it, telling the press, “I’m just a guy who paid rent.”

As both sides continue to battle in court and in the headlines, Yellowstone—ironically—remains at the center of the drama.