Kevin Costner is leaving Yellowstone due to scheduling conflicts with his new film series, Horizon: An American Saga, which he is directing and starring in. The actor, who plays John Dutton III, confirmed his departure in September 2023 after months of speculation.
Costner wanted to reduce his filming days for Season 5, Part 2 to just one week, which Yellowstone executives deemed too short. Negotiations fell through, leading to the announcement that the second part of Season 5 would be the show's final season. A new series starring Matthew McConaughey is expected to replace it.
Costner stated he had tried to make things work, noting that scripts for Part 2 were unfinished and that he was offered less money than in previous seasons. He has hinted at potential legal action to secure his full pay for Season 5.
Despite his exit, there are ongoing discussions about Costner appearing in a few episodes to conclude his character's storyline. Creator Taylor Sheridan expressed disappointment but confirmed that John Dutton's arc was always intended to end before the series finale.
The final episodes of Yellowstone are unlikely to air until 2024 due to the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike.
