How Kevin Costner Is ‘Still Central’ to Yellowstone’s Final Episodes Despite His Dramatic Show Exit

After several months of playing coy about his involvement in the final episodes of Yellowstone, Kevin Costner confirmed in June 2024 that he would not be returning for season 5 part 2. As a main star of the beloved western series, his exit understandably left many fans wondering if the show would truly be the same without him. However, Christina Voros, who directed four out of the six remaining episodes, promised that Kevin’s character is still a big part of the story.

‘Yellowstone’ Director Christina Voros Says Kevin Costner Is ‘Still Central’ to Final Episodes

Christina revealed to The Hollywood Reporter that when it comes to Kevin’s character, Dutton family patriarch John Dutton, his “presence is integral” to the story.

“I think to say any more than that would potentially compromise all the work that went into redacting the scripts,” she told the outlet ahead of the November 10, 2024, premiere of season 5 part 2. However, Christina reiterated that John is “the patriarch and his presence is an essential component to the story.”

Kevin Costner‘s Quotes About a Return for ‘Yellowstone‘ Final Episodes

“John Dutton is still central,” she concluded.

Is Kevin Costner Returning to ‘Yellowstone’ Season 5 Part 2?

Kevin announced in an Instagram video on June 20, 2024, that he was not coming back for the final episodes of Yellowstone.

“Hi everyone. I just want to reach out and let you know that after this long year and a half of working on [his Horizon film series] and doing all the things that that’s required, and thinking about Yellowstone — that beloved series that I love, that I know you love – I just realize that I’m not going to be able to continue season 5b or into the future,” he said.

The actor continued, “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.”

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Kevin’s confirmation came after months of rumors about his exit from the series following alleged disagreements over scheduling with Yellowstone creator Taylor Sheridan.

“I made a contract for seasons five, six and seven,” Kevin explained to Deadline in May 2024. “In February, after a two- or three-month negotiation, they made another contract. They wanted to redo that one, and instead of seasons six and seven, it was 5A and 5B, and maybe we’ll do six. They weren’t able to make those. Horizon was set in the middle, but Yellowstone was first position. I fit [Horizon] into the gaps. They just kept moving their gaps.”

Why Was ‘Yellowstone’ Canceled? Inside the Show's Drama and Timeline

Who Is Returning for the Final Episodes of ‘Yellowstone’?

While Kevin will not be present as John Dutton in Yellowstone season 5 part 2, the cast features plenty of other familiar faces. The stars of the final episodes include Luke Grimes as Kayce Dutton, Kelly Reilly as Beth Dutton, Wes Bentley as Jamie Dutton, Cole Hauser as Rip Wheeler, Kelsey Asbille as Monica Long Dutton, Brecken Merrill as Tate Dutton, Jefferson White as Jimmy Hurdstram, Forrie J. Smith as Lloyd Pierce, Denim Richards as Colby Mayfield, Ian Bohen as Ryan, Finn Little as Carter, Ryan Bingham as Walker, Gil Birmingham as Chief Thomas Rainwater, Jen Landon as Teeter, Kathryn Kelly as Emily and Lainey Wilson as Abby.

Yellowstone season 5 part 2 premieres on Paramount Network on November 10, 2024.