Christine Baumgartner, former wife of Kevin Costner, is moving forward with her life following the turbulent end of her 18-year marriage to the Hollywood star. The 50-year-old designer recently got engaged to financier Josh Connor, 49, and the couple is now relocating from their respective homes as they begin this new chapter together.
During the divorce proceedings, Baumgartner rented a lavish property in Santa Barbara for $40,000 per month, which has now been listed on the market for $45,000. This opulent home, which boasts features such as a wood-burning fireplace, pool, and outdoor kitchen, exemplifies the kind of upscale lifestyle she maintained during her marriage to Costner. On the other hand, Connor's five-bedroom Montecito home, listed for just over $7 million, reflects his wealth and social standing, complete with amenities catering to the affluent lifestyle of the California coast.
The newly engaged couple's relationship reportedly blossomed around the same time Baumgartner filed for divorce, with the engagement news surfacing on January 26. The proposal was made on the beach, marking not just the union of two families but also signaling Baumgartner's readiness to embrace her new life after the high-profile, often amicable, battle over divorce terms with Costner, 70.
Critics have raised eyebrows at the speed of Baumgartner's engagement, noting it's been less than one year since her marriage to Costner ended, which culminated amid public disputes over child support, asset distribution, and even arguments over household items. Despite the swift transition, sources close to Baumgartner state she is 'blissfully happy' and focused on her future with Connor, which is built on mutual values and support during her divorce ordeal.
The divorce itself gained extensive media coverage, being described as one of the most contentious separations within Hollywood. Baumgartner cited irreconcilable differences when she filed for divorce in May 2023, and arguments about finances and custody were widely reported. Costner, whose financial profile estimates his worth at around $400 million, faced public scrutiny over his claims against Baumgartner, including accusations of financial misconduct amid their split.
Despite their challenging history, the actor has commented on the emotional aftermath of the divorce, speaking candidly about the pain and the need to remain strong for their three children: Cayden, 17, Hayes, 15, and Grace, 14. Costner emphasized his commitment to co-parenting, stating, "My children are looking at me, so I can’t wilt like a daisy. I have to go forward." The couple eventually reached a settlement on child support, which required Costner to pay around $63,209 monthly.
While Baumgartner's engagement has sparked mixed reactions, insiders explain her friendship with Connor began as support during the difficult breakup and blossomed organically. Following their engagement, Baumgartner’s friends described her relationship with Connor as positive, highlighting their shared values and commitment to family. The engagement ring itself—a stunning emerald-cut diamond—symbolizes clarity, which resonates with Baumgartner's desire for transparency and strength moving forward.
Sources also divulged some of the dynamics surrounding the engagement. Costner reportedly learned of the engagement through their children, which some equate to feeling 'sucker punched' by the news and left him considering legal challenges to their divorce settlement. The actor, who has been linked to various women since their split, has been deliberate about entering the dating scene, focusing primarily on his children as well as the emotional weight of his past marriage.
Throughout these developments, friends of Baumgartner have expressed admiration for her resilience and forward-looking attitude. One friend noted, "Christine is such a positive person... she and Josh are over the moon and excited for their future together." The couple is currently house-hunting, seeking to create their own oasis as they blend their families and lives.
Moving on from the shadows of her marriage to Costner, Baumgartner is focusing on her happiness, asserting, "It is entirely Kevin's choice if he wants to live in the past." With conflicts behind her, Baumgartner, along with Connor, seems ready to build their lives together, ensuring their relationship is defined by mutual respect and shared life goals.
While Costner continues to cope with the aftermath of the divorce, Baumgartner and Connor's story is one of renewal and optimism, reflecting on the importance of moving forward positively and constructively. Friends of the couple are confident this new chapter will bring joy and stability, something Baumgartner has sought throughout the tumultuous divorce experience. For Baumgartner, the engagement not only marks the beginning of her relationship with Connor but signifies her claim to independence and happiness after years of struggle within her marriage.