A Plot Twist Straight Out of Hollywood
Just when it seemed the dust had settled after Kevin Costner’s high-profile divorce, another curveball lands. Christine Baumgartner, his ex-wife of nearly two decades, is now engaged—just a year after finalizing their split. And here’s the twist: the man she’s marrying is reportedly a former friend and neighbor of Costner. The news has stirred up more than just tabloid headlines—it’s raised eyebrows, sparked online debates, and left many wondering what really went down behind the scenes.
Let’s dive into the full story—from the beginning of Kevin and Christine’s love story to the shocking new engagement that’s shaking up Hollywood.
Their Fairytale Beginning and Quiet Life Together
A Ranch Wedding and Big Dreams
Kevin and Christine tied the knot in 2004 at his sprawling ranch in Aspen, Colorado. It was rustic, romantic, and filled with promise. At the time, Kevin was a veteran Hollywood star, and Christine, a former model turned handbag designer, was known for keeping things classy and low-key.
Welcoming Their Children
The couple had three children together—two sons and a daughter—adding to Kevin’s four older children from previous relationships. They kept family life private, rarely courting the spotlight, and for many years, appeared to be rock solid.
The Unexpected Divorce That Shocked Fans
Filing for Divorce in May 2023
After 18 years of marriage, Christine filed for divorce citing irreconcilable differences. The move reportedly blindsided Kevin, who had just wrapped up filming projects and was focused on his family.
Custody Battles and Financial Disputes
Things quickly got messy. Disagreements over child support and the couple’s prenuptial agreement turned the divorce into a public spectacle. Christine requested tens of thousands per month in support. Kevin’s legal team pushed back hard. In the end, the court ordered him to pay over $63,000 monthly for their three children.
A New Romance Forms in the Background
Enter Josh Connor: A Familiar Face
Not long after the divorce filing, rumors swirled around Christine spending time with financier Josh Connor. Many speculated something more was going on, but Christine denied any romantic relationship in court, stating they were just friends.
Here’s where it gets juicy: Josh wasn’t just any friend—he was someone Kevin knew personally. A former neighbor and part of their social circle, Josh had even reportedly loaned Christine money during the separation.
The Engagement That Took Everyone by Surprise
Santa Barbara Proposal on the Beach
In January 2025, Josh proposed to Christine during a romantic dinner on the beach in Santa Barbara. It was quiet, intimate, and just the two of them. Despite cloudy skies and light rain, she said yes—and the moment marked a new chapter for the mother of three.
A Swift Transition from Divorce to “I Do”
Fans and insiders alike were shocked by how quickly the engagement followed the divorce. While there’s no official wedding date yet, sources close to the couple say they’re already making plans—possibly even considering a destination ceremony in Hawaii.
Kevin Costner’s Reaction: Hurt, Shocked, and “Sucker-Punched”
He Found Out from Their Kids
According to multiple sources, Kevin didn’t learn about the engagement from Christine. Instead, his children reportedly told him, leaving him feeling blindsided. Friends close to the actor say he described the moment as a “sucker punch.”
His Circle Rallies Behind Him
While Kevin has stayed relatively quiet publicly, those close to him say he was disappointed—not necessarily about the relationship, but how it all played out. The fact that Josh was once a friend added another layer of emotional weight.
Christine’s Perspective: A Fresh Start and New Love
Sources Say She’s Happier Than Ever
Friends of Christine say she didn’t enter the relationship lightly. After years in a marriage that ended on difficult terms, she’s found peace, support, and joy in her new relationship. And they claim her connection with Josh developed naturally over time.
She’s Focused on Her Kids and Her Future
Despite the public drama, Christine has tried to keep the focus on her kids. She’s been seen out and about with them, and those close to her say she’s making sure their lives stay as normal as possible.
The Fallout Among Friends: Divided Loyalties
Some Friends Drop Off the Wedding Guest List
Reports suggest that many mutual friends are now taking sides. Some of Kevin’s inner circle have distanced themselves from Christine and Josh, declining potential invites to their upcoming nuptials.
Trust Issues in Hollywood’s Tight Circles
Hollywood friendships can be tricky. And when love triangles—or quadrangles—involve public figures, things only get messier. According to insiders, this new romance has stirred up trust issues among their social scene.
Are Kevin and Josh Still in Touch?
Not Likely, According to Sources
The once-friendly relationship between Kevin and Josh has seemingly come to an end. Sources say the engagement has effectively closed that door—and there are no plans for reconciliation.
Kevin’s Current Focus: Career, Kids, and Healing
Back to Work with ‘Horizon’ and ‘Yellowstone’
Costner has shifted his attention back to work. He’s heavily involved in directing and promoting his Western saga Horizon and has remained connected to Yellowstone fans despite his eventual departure from the show.
Putting Fatherhood First
More than anything, Kevin’s priority remains his children. He’s reportedly spending more one-on-one time with them and staying focused on co-parenting through this transition.
Speculation Around Kevin’s Love Life
Rumors About Singer Jewel
In late 2024, photos of Kevin and singer Jewel together sparked dating rumors. Though both parties downplayed the speculation, fans have remained curious about whether there’s more than just friendship brewing.
Kevin Says He’s Not Rushing Into Anything
In interviews, Kevin has made it clear—he’s in no rush to find romance. He’s still adjusting to single life and taking things one day at a time.
A Complicated Ending to a Hollywood Love Story
Who Moved On Too Fast?
Many fans debate whether Christine’s engagement is too soon—or whether Kevin’s heartbreak is justified. The truth is, both sides have valid emotions. Ending a long marriage isn’t clean, and moving on often involves complicated timing.
Co-Parenting Is the Priority
Regardless of who’s engaged to whom, the focus now has to be on the children. Both Kevin and Christine seem to agree on this front and are working to keep things civil for the sake of their family.
Conclusion: Real Life, Real Emotions, and a Fresh Chapter
Kevin Costner and Christine Baumgartner’s story was never just about fame—it was about love, family, heartbreak, and ultimately, new beginnings. Her engagement to a former friend of Kevin’s adds a dramatic twist, no doubt. But it’s also a reminder that life moves fast—and not always in the direction you expect.
While fans take sides and gossip swirls, both Kevin and Christine are finding their way forward. Whether that means new projects, new love, or just finding peace in the chaos, their story isn’t over. It’s just evolving.
FAQs
1. Who is Christine Baumgartner’s fiancé, Josh Connor?
Josh Connor is a financier and former friend of Kevin Costner. He was previously a neighbor and part of the family’s social circle.
2. How long after the divorce did Christine get engaged?
Christine got engaged roughly one year after finalizing her divorce from Kevin Costner.
3. Did Kevin Costner know about the relationship before the engagement?
According to sources, Kevin was caught off guard and reportedly learned about the engagement through their children.
4. Are Kevin and Christine still on speaking terms?
They are said to be in contact for co-parenting purposes but are no longer close personally.
5. Is Kevin Costner dating anyone?
While there have been rumors about singer Jewel, Kevin has publicly stated he’s focused on his kids and work, and isn’t actively dating.
