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For almost two years, various explanations have emerged regarding Kevin Costner's absence from Yellowstone season 5 part 2. The most notable reason that has captured public interest is the rumored ongoing conflict between Costner, showrunner Taylor Sheridan, and Paramount Network.
Other speculations suggested scheduling conflicts as the cause of Costner's absence. Despite multiple sources, including a representative for Costner, denying conflict rumors over the years, the reason for his absence from the second half of Yellowstone season 5 is still widely believed to be connected to this issue.
Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers. Readers' discretion is advised.
The alleged reason why Kevin Costner stepped out of Yellowstone season 5 part 2
As mentioned earlier, the speculations about Kevin Costner departing from Yellowstone due to disagreements with the show's creators and the network have garnered major attention among other circulating rumors.
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Various media outlets, including Forbes, claimed that the reported conflict began in 2023, alleging that Costner declined to film on set for more than one week for the second half of season 5. However, Costner's attorney, Marty Singer, rebutted these allegations while discussing it with Puck News in February 2023. He stated:
“The idea that Kevin was only willing to work one week on the second half of Season 5 of Yellowstone is an absolute lie. It’s ridiculous — and anyone suggesting it shouldn’t be believed for one second.”
In addition, during a discussion with Today.com in May 2024, Costner further addressed the allegations by stating that he honored the "truth of the contract." He stated that he never filmed for Yellowstone season 5 part 2 because there was no script available.
Also Read: Yellowstone Season 5 Part 2: Release date, where to watch, and what to expect.
Kevin Costner revealed ahead of Yellowstone season 5 part 2's premiere that he would no longer be part of the show
Following months of theorization concerning Kevin Costner's return to Yellowstone season 5 part 2, Costner uploaded an Instagram video that confirmed his absence from the second part of the show. He said in the video posted on June 21, 2024:
“I want 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, that beloved series that I love, that I know you love, I just realized that I’m not going to be able to continue Season 5B or into the future."
Costner also expressed how much the show and its fans meant to him. He said:
“It was something that really changed me. I loved it. And I know you loved it. And I just wanted to let you know that I won’t be returning and I love the relationship we’ve been able to develop and I’ll see you at the movies.”
Also Read: How Yellowstone season 6 could still be a possibility after Kevin Costner's departure.
How was Kevin Costner's character written off in Yellowstone season 5 part 2?
Kevin Costner's character, John Dutton III met his tragic end in Yellowstone season 5 part 2. In the premiere episode of the fifth season's second part, it was initially revealed that John had committed suicide, creating chaos among his family members.
However, later the possibility was ruled out when it was found that John's death was part of a conspiracy scheme set in motion by Sarah Atwood (a recurring character in the show portrayed by Dawn Olivieri), who was constantly in opposition to John's views and values.
It was also insinuated in the episode that Sarah and Jamie Dutton had conspired to kill John together, however, John had stepped off that train at the last moment.
Also Read: Yellowstone season 5 part 2 complete release schedule: All episodes and when they arrive.
Is Yellowstone season 5 part 2 the end of Yellowstone?
Yellowstone season 5 part 2 was widely marketed as the end of the Yellowstone series. However, various comments from people associated with the show over time have sparked questions among fans about its future.
For instance, Ian Bohen, who plays the character of Ryan on the show, expressed some ambiguity concerning Yellowstone's future during an interview with TODAY.com. He said that "it may not" be the end of the series, adding:
"I feel satisfied, and very happy with what we've done. You know stories can't go on forever. We're going to position it to have some sort of conclusion in some of the relationships and this and that. But not necessarily over."
The next episode of Yellowstone season 5 part 2 will be broadcast on Paramount Network on November 17, 2024.
