In a recent update, the status of Kevin Costner in Yellowstone season 5 has taken an intriguing turn. The highly publicized and tumultuous exit of Costner from his central role as John Dutton has kept Yellowstone, one of television's most successful shows, in the headlines. According to a report from Matt Belloni's What I'm Hearing newsletter at Puck, Costner's representative is still lobbying for his return to finish John Dutton's story, despite the reported feud between Costner and series creator Taylor Sheridan.
Interestingly, Belloni reveals that Sheridan is 'super happy' with how he has currently wrapped up the show without Costner's involvement. This implies that Yellowstone may conclude its final episodes without the two-time Oscar winner. However, with filming for Yellowstone season 5 part 2 scheduled for the upcoming spring and summer, time is running out for any potential reconciliation.
The conflict between Costner and Sheridan first made headlines in early 2023 when reports surfaced suggesting that Costner was refusing to complete filming for Yellowstone season 5 part 2 unless he was given a reduced schedule to accommodate his upcoming two-part Western movie, Horizon. Additionally, Costner wanted to ensure satisfaction with his character's arc. It was later announced that Yellowstone would come to a close after season 5 but would be revived through a spinoff sequel series, potentially featuring Matthew McConaughey.
However, Belloni cautions that McConaughey's involvement in the Yellowstone spinoff is uncertain at this time. The actor reportedly wants to see a script before committing to the project. It remains to be seen whether McConaughey will ultimately join the spinoff.
Throughout last summer, Costner reportedly made efforts to negotiate with Paramount, making what were described as 'aggressive demands' towards Sheridan and the show's producers. Costner's producing partner, Rod Lake, emphasized that the actor was eager to return to Yellowstone. Costner saw it as an opportunity to promote his upcoming Horizon movies while also giving fans what they wanted. However, previous updates indicated that discussions between Costner and Sheridan did not go well, leading to Paramount withdrawing its offer for Costner to return.
According to reports, in a phone call last June, Costner and Sheridan discussed a possible return for the actor to the hit Western series. Costner apparently shared a list of demands, including an increase in pay, a reduced schedule, and the potential right to veto scripts. Unfortunately, the demand for script veto power was a deal-breaker, and the talks between Costner and Sheridan ultimately fell apart.
It remains to be seen if Costner's reported desire to return to Yellowstone will triumph, or if the show will conclude without his involvement. As fans eagerly await the next season of Yellowstone and the promising spinoff, the future of the beloved series hangs in the balance.
