Yellowstone star Luke Grimes reflects on Kevin Costner’s exit ahead of the show’s final episodes, explaining his viewpoint on the situation.
Yellowstone star Luke Grimes has responded to Kevin Costner leaving the series prior to its final episodes, explaining his perspective on the situation that transpired. Costner has been part of the western drama since season 1, portraying main character John Dutton until halfway through season 5. However, due to disputes between the star and series creator Taylor Sheridan, he has since exited the show, and won’t be coming back for its final episodes.
Speaking with Independent, Grimes opened up about his thoughts surrounding Costner’s exit ahead of Yellowstone season 5 part 2. The actor explained his perspective on what it means for the show’s plans in its remaining episodes, but also understands why he decided to leave, citing Horizon: An American Saga as one key element to his departure. Check out what Grimes had to say below:
Whatever happened there is unfortunate if it’s changed anything about how the show was going to unfold. I know, [Costner] got busy with his movies that were like passion projects [the newly announced Horizon: An American Saga for one]. At a certain point, you gotta do what you gotta do, man; you gotta do what you love.
How Will Yellowstone’s Last Episodes Address Kevin Costner’s Exit?
Season 5 part 1 ended with Costner’s John still a major part of the story, since Jamie had plans to oust him from his position as Governor of Montana. Now, with the lead actor no longer on the cast of Yellowstone for the upcoming batch of episodes, the story surrounding him will have to change to accommodate his leaving. This could indicate a major shift in the storyline, especially given how important his presence on the series has been since the very beginning.
It’s possible that John still has a role in the series, his position as Governor the perfect excuse to keep him from showing up despite still being part of the show. However, without Costner around to portray him, it seems increasingly possible that he will be quickly written out of the show before the core story of the final episodes gets explored. This could be anything from him going to prison offscreen to his possible death. Either way, it’s clear the show will need to find some way of writing John out so the story can continue without him.
Not only does the series have to end on a satisfying note despite Costner’s absence, but it also has to find a way to transition into the upcoming Yellowstone sequel series starring Matthew McConaughey, tentatively titled 2024. This means it’s likely John’s character will get an early ending, followed by the rest of the season’s events leading into the next chapter of the growing franchise. Although it’s disappointing he won’t be returning, it’s clear Sheridan has a vision for the franchise ahead.