Kevin Costner has been left reeling after learning of his ex-wife Christine Baumgartner's engagement to his former friend and neighbor Josh Connor. The shocking news of their engagement, which occurred during a romantic dinner on January 26, 2024, came as a bitter surprise to Costner, who felt "sucker punched" by the circumstances surrounding it, particularly as he found out through his children rather than directly from Baumgartner.
Sources allege Costner stated, "Kevin said he felt sucker punched when his kids told him about the marriage proposal. He said he would have preferred to have heard it straight from Christine, but either way, it still feels like betrayal even after all this time," as reported by Daily Mail. The engagement follows closely on the heels of the couple's finalized divorce just months earlier, leaving Costner, who celebrated his 70th birthday shortly before the engagement, grappling with feelings of loss and disappointment.
Costner and Baumgartner, married for nearly two decades, had their fair share of challenges, culminating with Baumgartner filing for divorce citing irreconcilable differences back in May 2023. After months of negotiations surrounding their divorce settlement—including $63,209 monthly child support for their three children—Baumgartner's new engagement quickly became the talk of the tabloids.
Bearing the engagement ring proudly, Baumgartner was seen out with Connor shortly after the proposal, showcasing the diamond and her happiness. According to reports, the proposal was set against the backdrop of a California beach, where Connor knelt down just as rain began to threaten, creating a special moment mostly devoid of onlookers. “It was about to rain, so almost no one else was on the beach when Josh got down on one knee,” explained one insider to People.
Following their divorce, Baumgartner's newfound relationship has drawn mixed emotions from observers. While some deem her choices as her prerogative post-divorce, others—including Costner's more vocal acquaintances—suggest this engagement feels like betrayal, especially due to Connor’s previous friendship with Costner. Some observers have expressed disapproval for Connor, indicating, "His friend should be ashamed. A real man doesn’t wait on the sideline and takes his buddy’s ex-wife. That’s low. It’s what men with no options do"—a sentiment shared online by those taking interest.
Despite these emotional upheavals, there have been suggestions Costner may seek to renegotiate the substantial financial obligations stemming from their divorce. It has been alleged he is contemplating adjustments to the existing monthly support payments once Baumgartner enters a new marriage. “He is watching the situation closely, and once they wed, I can’t see why he should continue to support Josh's life through his dollar,” claimed another insider. Costner was obligated to pay Baumgartner not only the child support but also $1.5 million as part of their prenup and was mandated to pay for her mortgage expenses for one year.
Meanwhile, insiders have suggested Costner is redirecting his focus toward his career and family. Recently spotted mingling with high-profile friends such as Jennifer Lopez, Costner has plenty on his plate, including the premiere of his upcoming television project, Yellowstone to Yosemite, scheduled to debut on February 8 on Fox Nation. This show will document historical excursions and showcases Costner's passion for the great outdoors alongside his previous successes with Western themes. "He’s been focusing on his kids and work," sources have stated, indicating this approach aims to stabilize his life following the tumultuous period.
Yet, even as he makes moves to forge forward with projects and appearances, Costner has also found solace with his one-year-old English Boxhead Lab, Bobby, his constant companion. "Thank God for the dog," said another insider; she noted the happiness Bobby has brought to Costner's life amid personal upheaval and his efforts to embrace the estranged relationship with Baumgartner.
Although Baumgartner's engagement has drawn scrutiny, it similarly serves as evidence of her moving forward from her tumultuous marriage. Described as "beyond happy" with Josh Connor, Baumgartner expressed excitement over their future together, highlighting how their relationship began from friendship, boasting feelings of love and stability. A close friend remarked, “Christine and Josh's relationship started as a friendship, so they have a really strong foundation. They share the same values, and she feels so happy and supported in this new relationship.”
With Baumgartner and Connor now at the forefront of the entertainment news, it remains to be seen how Costner will navigate both their engagement news and his own professional area. For now, as he continues to prioritize his children and upcoming projects, Costner remains focused on piecing together his next chapters.