For five seasons, Kevin Costner has portrayed John Dutton, patriarch of the troubled ranching family on Paramount Network’s hit series Yellowstone. The show’s final episodes (known as season 5, part b), have resumed filming in Montana, and the network issued a premiere date of November 10. But, when the show returns, Kevin will not be on screen.
Through the months of waiting since the series last aired, fans have been holding out hope that its star would return. While promoting Horizon: An American Saga (Kevin’s passion project that some blame for Yellowstone scheduling conflicts), the actor has left his future on the series open-ended. But with a new video shared on Instagram, he has officially closed that door.
Kevin shared a candid video wearing a white sweater and black baseball hat. He says, “Hi, everyone. I just wanted to reach out and let you know that after this long year and a half of working on Horizon and doing all the things that’s required and thinking about Yellowstone, the beloved series that I love and that I know you love…I just realized that I’m not be able to continue season 5 b or into the future.”
He continues, “It was something that really changed me—I loved it. And I know you loved it. I just wanted to let you know that I won’t be returning. I love the relationship we’ve been able to develop, and I’ll see you at the movies.”
Fans flooded the comments section with messages for the star:
“We’ll miss you on Yellowstone so much. You made the show what it is!!”
“Two things can be true. I’m excited to see your movie and I’m also heartbroken that you’re not returning to the show.”
“Well, this really really breaks my heart. There’s no Yellowstone without you, Sir. 💔💔”
“How wonderful that you’ve taken the time to let your Fans know.”
“Wait… so not even 5B??!! This is brutal after such a long wait.”
We’ll be awaiting the show’s return to find out how they handle Kevin’s departure.
