According to The New York Post, renowned actor Kevin Costner recently found himself in the hot seat during an interview with CBS Mornings' Gayle King, where he was grilled about his official departure from the popular Paramount+ series, "Yellowstone."
Rumors of a rift between Costner and the show's creator, Taylor Sheridan, have been circulating since whispers of Costner's exit began in May 2023. The actor confirmed his departure a year later, on June 21.
In a tense exchange on the June 27 episode of CBS Mornings, King, 69, pushed the boundaries with the Oscar-winning actor, questioning whether he and Sheridan were engaged in a battle of egos. "[People] say because of 'Horizon,' it caused problems for you on 'Yellowstone,'" she stated. "People say this about the two of you: both big egos, both very powerful, both at the top of their game, and that right now, maybe you two are playing a game of whose is bigger? Do you see it that way? Whose is bigger, Kevin?"
Costner, 69, sidestepped the question, expressing his affection for the show. "I loved the show before anybody. It was Taylor and myself. The truth never changes that love was really strong. The idea of going back I would do that in a second if I felt that it was If it was something that I could do, wanted to do, I would make it fit," he said.
Despite Costner's evasion, King continued to probe, questioning why he and Sheridan couldn't resolve their differences. "But the characterization of you isn't necessarily flattering," King told him. "You made demands, you want to have a certain schedule, you want to shoot at a certain time, you want certain money." She added, "If its not that hard, why cant the two of you be able to work it out? People would love to see that."
Costner responded, "This isnt therapy, Gayle, I mean were not gonna discuss this on the show." He reiterated his previous sentiments about the series, stating that he has conducted his life "in a pretty straightforward way" and has "never missed any obligations" throughout his career.
In a separate interview with People, Costner echoed similar sentiments, expressing his love for the world of "Yellowstone." However, he noted that "the scripts werent there" and that his new four-part film project, "Horizon: An American Saga," had become his new priority.
Despite his decision to leave, Costner described "Yellowstone" as a "beloved series" in his farewell message to fans. "I just realized that Im not going to be able to continue, season five or into the future," he said in an Instagram video. "I loved it and I know you loved it. I just wanted to let you know that I wont be returning," he shared. "I love the relationships that Ive been able to develop. And Ill see you at the movies."
Sheridan, 54, has also spoken about his relationship with Costner following the actor's exit rumors in 2023. He expressed disappointment over Costner's departure but refrained from making any negative remarks about him. In a June 2023 interview with the Hollywood Reporter, Sheridan stated, "My opinion of Kevin as an actor hasnt altered." He added, "His creation of John Dutton is symbolic and powerful and Ive never had an issue with Kevin that he and I couldnt work out on the phone."
Sheridan also commented on Costners new project, "Horizon: An American Saga," where the actor serves as the writer, director, producer, and star. "His movie seems to be a great priority to him and he wants to shift focus. I sure hope [the movie is] worth it and that its a good one," Sheridan said.
The first half of "Yellowstone" Season 5 aired between November 2022 and January 2023. The final six episodes are currently in production and are scheduled to air on November 10.
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