Once the gold standard for rugged leading men, Kevin Costner now finds himself battling rumors, resentment, and financial strain. The 70-year-old actor, who soared back to fame as Yellowstone’s stoic patriarch John Dutton, is reportedly facing a wave of backlash that could tarnish his decades-long career.

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Trouble Behind the Yellowstone Cameras

At the height of Yellowstone’s popularity, Costner was reportedly clashing with both co-stars and creator Taylor Sheridan. Insiders describe an increasingly tense set environment during Season 5, with Costner pushing for last-minute script changes and demanding adjustments to shooting schedules.

According to reports from Woman’s Day Australia, friction reached a breaking point when Costner and Wes Bentley (Jamie Dutton) engaged in a heated argument. The altercation, coupled with Costner’s growing disagreements with Sheridan, ultimately led to his exit — and, according to insiders, cut short the series’ original multi-season plan.

Crew members allegedly described the mood as “awkward and strained,” with morale slipping as the production became consumed by creative disputes.

Despite the drama, Yellowstone made Costner one of the highest-paid TV actors in the world, earning over $1.3 million per episode.

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‘Horizon’ and a Risky Reinvention

After leaving the series, Costner threw himself into his passion project — Horizon: An American Saga, a four-part Civil War epic that he financed largely himself. The first installment, released in 2025, performed far below expectations.

Reports claim Costner invested $38 million of his own money, leaving him financially stretched as the sequel remains in limbo. Adding to the stress, the production has faced legal scrutiny after a stuntwoman alleged unsafe working conditions on set. Costner publicly called the incident “terrible” but maintained it was an isolated case.

This follows earlier legal disputes, including a 2013 lawsuit with producer Jim Wilson over their company’s financial management.

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Personal Turmoil in the Public Eye

Costner’s professional woes have been compounded by his 2024 divorce from longtime wife Christine Baumgartner. Their split — reportedly contentious despite a prenup — has drawn heavy tabloid attention.

Sources say the divorce took a serious emotional and financial toll on the Oscar winner. To make matters worse, reports surfaced that Baumgartner is now engaged to Josh Connor, a former friend of Costner’s, intensifying the media frenzy.

An insider close to the actor described the past year as “brutal,” adding, “He’s juggling legal issues, a failed film, and personal heartbreak. It’s been one thing after another.”

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A Legacy at a Crossroads

With two Academy Awards, a string of classics like The Bodyguard, Field of Dreams, and The Untouchables, and a reputation as a cinematic icon, Costner’s legacy remains undeniable. Yet industry insiders warn that Hollywood has a long memory — and that his recent controversies could overshadow his contributions.

Still, Costner’s supporters insist his passion for filmmaking remains unshaken. Horizon’s second chapter could be his chance at redemption — if it can recapture both audiences and critics.

For now, Kevin Costner’s story mirrors many of his on-screen heroes: a man fighting for control of his own destiny, even as the fire closes in.