Kevin Costner is one of the most recognizable actors of our time, and his fame has reached new heights with his performance as John Dutton on Yellowstone. But not much is known about Kevin’s real-life partner, Christine Baumgartner. His wife of 18 years frequently joins Kevin on the red carpet, but she stays off of social media and seems to live a quiet private life outside of the limelight. Here’s what we know about Kevin Costner’s wife.
Who is Christine Baumgartner?
Christine Baumgartner is a 49-year-old former model and handbag designer. According to Brides, she graduated from California State University in Fullerton with a degree in business. Her line of designer laptop bags, Cat Bag Couture, was even featured on Desperate Housewives.
How Did Kevin Costner and Christine Baumgartner Meet?
The two initially met on a golf course while Kevin was rehearsing for the 1996 movie Tin Cup. They reconnected years later in 1998 at a restaurant. Kevin told People, “We exchanged numbers, and I told her that I would–did she mind if I called her in two weeks. I did not realize that was like an insult to a woman.”
After dating for several years, their marriage almost didn’t happen. Kevin and Christine initially came to an impasse in their relationship over having children and broke up in 2002. Kevin, who has four older children, didn’t want more, and that was a deal-breaker for Christine.
According to Extra, Christine told Kevin, “If you’re going to be with me, you need to know that kids are at the end of the road for me with you, if that’s going to happen.” Kevin told Parade that Christine said, “I’m going to wait for you, but not long. When you come to your senses, come back to me.’ [laughs] And I did.”
When Did Kevin Costner and Christine Baumgartner Get Married?
The couple tied the knot in September 2004 by a stream at Kevin’s ranch, The Dunbar, outside of Aspen, Colorado where fellow celebrities like Tim Allen and Don Johnson were in attendance. Kevin reportedly arrived in a horse-drawn carriage, while Christine pulled up in a green vintage pickup truck. The Yellowstone star still owns the 160-acre ranch, and it’s available for rental.
Do Kevin and Christine Have Children?
They have three children: Cayden Wyatt (15), Hayes Logan (14), and Grace Avery (12). Kevin has three children (Annie, 38; Lily, 36; and Joe, 34) from his previous marriage to Cindy Silva and one child (Liam, 27) from his relationship with Bridget Rooney. Kevin told Closer, “I have played two roles in my life, one I get paid to do, which is the movies, and the other one is being a father, for which I’ll be rewarded my whole life.”
Christine Files for Divorce
After 18 years of marriage, Christine has filed for divorce, citing “irreconcilable differences.” According to People, a representative for Kevin said, “It is with great sadness that circumstances beyond his control have transpired which have resulted in Mr. Costner having to participate in a dissolution of marriage action. We ask that his, Christine’s, and their children’s privacy be respected as they navigate this difficult time.”
