Kevin Costner’s Rocky Path with “Yellowstone”
It’s been a rollercoaster for the fans of the hit TV series “Yellowstone.” Kevin Costner, who portrayed the formidable John Dutton, seems to be at the crossroads, both with the show and in his personal life. But as the on-screen dynamics change, it appears that viewers’ allegiance to characters may be shifting too.
Costner’s Tumultuous Departure
While many initially believed Costner’s departure from the show was a mutual decision, new insights suggest otherwise. The acclaimed actor, immersed in the filming of “Horizon: An American Saga”, hinted that Taylor Sheridan’s choice to bifurcate the fifth season played a pivotal role in his exit.
But this isn’t the only turbulence in Costner’s life. His public divorce with Christine Baumgartner adds another layer to his complex current narrative.
A Hope for Return, Laden with Conditions
Recent reports from Puck highlight Costner’s alleged insistence to re-enter the “Yellowstone” world. However, his rendezvous with Sheridan in July came with strings attached. Costner allegedly demanded not only a heftier paycheck but also a more significant say in the scriptwriting process, conditions that reportedly didn’t sit well with the creator, according to Puck News.
The Shifting Popularity Metrics
Perhaps, more intriguing is the shift in audience preferences. Data from ListenFirst, a social media analytics firm, suggests a decline in interest surrounding Costner’s character. While John Dutton dominated views in the first season, garnering 44% of the total, this enthusiasm waned by the latest season, plummeting to a mere 14%.
Puck’s citation of Paramount viewer studies further affirms this drift. The general consensus? Fans wouldn’t be too perturbed if “Yellowstone” chose a trajectory veering away from Costner.
Kelly Reilly, portraying the fierce Beth Dutton, seems to have stepped into the limelight, overshadowing Costner, as noted by The Wall Street Journal.
Legal Tangles and the Way Forward
Costner’s potential return isn’t the only contentious issue. During a September 1st child support hearing, he dropped hints of considering legal action against “Yellowstone”, particularly concerning his payment for the latter half of season 5. Costner alleges a breach of his “back-end contractual participation rights”, claiming no compensation received in 2023.
Puck’s sources counteract, stating Costner was remunerated for season 5B. The contention? Costner perceives Paramount’s decision to rescind a return offer for upcoming seasons as a breach of contract.
The consequent legal threat seemingly extinguished any hopes of Chris McCarthy, the CEO of Paramount Networks Media Networks, persuading Costner to revisit negotiations for a return.
As this saga unfolds, Costner’s representatives remain silent, not responding to comment requests from media outlets like Insider.
Only time will reveal the final act in this enthralling drama, both on and off the screen.
Source: Insider
