Kevin Costner reveals why he won’t return for Yellowstone’s final episodes

Kevin Costner has confirmed that he will not be part of the final episodes of Yellowstone, shedding light on his decision to leave the hit series. 

Speaking to Extra's Billy Bush, Costner revealed he "just hadn't heard anything" about the fate of his character, family patriarch John Dutton. 

"It was just time to move on and as gracefully as you can with something that's been very important to you," the actor-director explained.

The Oscar winner exited the show after the first half of its fifth and final season, which premiered in November 2023. 

Until recently, it was unclear whether he would return for a final appearance or two. 

Costner confirmed on Friday that he would not be returning, as he is dedicating all his efforts to Horizon, a series of movies in which he is starring, writing, producing, and directing.

"It was something that really changed me," Costner said of Yellowstone. 

"I loved it, and I know you loved it. And I just wanted to let you know that I won't be returning. I love the relationship that we've been able to develop, and I'll see you at the movies."

Horizon features a stellar cast including Sienna Miller, Luke Wilson, and Sam Worthington as pioneers in a region that resonates deeply with Costner. 

"I'm in love with the language of the West," the California native shared. "I'm kind of in love with Shakespeare. And that's our Shakespeare."

Costner, who won two Oscars for the 1991 film Dances with Wolves, which he also directed, produced, and starred in, has heavily invested in Horizon, putting in $38 million of his own money. 

When asked if he had mortgaged a home for the funds, Costner responded, "It's gone pretty deep."

The first film in the series, Horizon: An American Saga, is set to arrive in theaters on Friday, June 28.