In a revelation as dramatic as the Dutton saga, Costner he admitted that contract negotiations could not cut him off. Taking the plunge during a child support hearing, Costner dished on the real reason behind his sudden exit. According to multiple reports, it all came down to money and creative control. “They offered me less money than previous seasons,” Costner said, as reported by People . “We tried to negotiate… we couldn’t help them anymore.”

Costner’s departure sent shockwaves through the Yellowstone fandom earlier this year when rumors surfaced of tension on set. In June, co-creator Taylor Sheridan shared his frustration, admitting that Costner’s exit disrupted the closure of John Dutton’s story. “It gives closure to his character,” Sheridan told The Hollywood Reporter. It wasn’t just a salary issue – there were also creative differences. “There were creative issues,” Costner confirmed.

So what exactly happened? Costner’s focus has reportedly shifted to his upcoming four-film project Horizon, in which he stars, directs and co-writes. Sheridan hinted that Costner’s priorities have changed, telling THR , “His movie seems to be a big priority for him…I sure hope (it’s worth it). You have

But Costner wasn’t completely shut out Yellowstone. During the hearing, he revealed that he adjusted his filming schedule at Horizon to accommodate Yellowstone’s fifth season. the noise? The second half of the season hadn’t even been scripted. Costner told the court he’s open to a potential sixth season — if the studios meet his salary demands, reportedly $12 million. “Make them pay me whatever number I come up with,” he said. Paramount and Yellowstone though? They left.

While fans have been left hanging, waiting for the second half of season five, the ongoing writers’ and actors’ strikes have thrown a wrench in its release. Originally scheduled for November, the final episodes remain up in the air.

Despite Costner’s star power and Yellowstone’s status as the best show on TV, it’s clear that wasn’t enough to keep the Oscar-winning Dances With Wolves actor happy. “It’s a bit disappointing,” he said, noting that he’s not in the final episodes of the hit series. Costner could “probably go to court” for compensation for unfinished business in season five if things get messier.

To add another layer of drama, Costner’s exit from Yellowstone coincided with his divorce from Christine Baumgartner, a former model and handbag designer. The two were married for 18 years before Baumgartner filed for divorce in May. Costner won another round in court – this time over child support. A judge in Santa Barbara ruled that he will pay $63,209 a month, a far cry from Baumgartner’s request of $161,592.

As Kevin Costner moves forward with Horizon and away from Dutton Ranch, one thing is for sure – he’s not going quietly into the sunset.

For more such updates check out Hollywood news.

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