Yellowstone has begun explaining what happened to Kevin Costner’s character John Dutton following the actor’s shock departure from the Neo-Western series.
Season 5, Episode 9 titled “Desire Is All You Need” revealed that John Dutton is indeed dead. The twist didn’t surprise many, as reports had stated that Kevin, 69, had completely severed ties with the production after a feud with series creator Taylor Sheridan. Unless they were ready to make nice with the Waterworld actor or replace a major character, à la Daario Naharis in Game of Thrones, there weren’t really any other options for the writers.
Kevin Costner Killed Off
The episode opens with the big reveal to the audience, first building tension with John ignoring a phone call, then driving home that something bad has gone down as Kayce passes police tape to see a body double of Kevin Costner lying face down and finally a confirmation via press conference to seal his fate.
The remainder of the series will focus on the aftermath of John’s death and the continuation of the other characters’ story lines, likely with heavier emphasis.
Taylor Sheridan’s Feud With Kevin Costner
Yellowstone creators and showrunners had split the fifth series into two parts – 5a and 5b – with Kevin confirming he wouldn’t be returning for the latter.
According to him, he had tried to fit in the production of his own, self–funded four-part Neo-Western movie series, Horizon, with the filming schedule for Yellowstone, and he blames the show for moving their shooting window around and making that an impossibility.
Deadline reported that the Dances With Wolves star had asked Paramount to film all eight episodes of season 5b in a week to accommodate his schedule. “We are told Paramount Network has declined Costner’s most recent proposal and instead has made the decision to move on to [other shows],” a source told the outlet.
However, Kevin’s lawyer, Marty Singer, vehemently denied the reports, saying, “The idea that Kevin was only willing to work one week on the second half of season 5 of Yellowstone is an absolute lie.”
“It’s ridiculous — and anyone suggesting it shouldn’t be believed for one second. As everyone who knows anything about Kevin is well aware, he is incredibly passionate about the show and has always gone way above and beyond to ensure its success,” the attorney added.
Season 6 in ‘Chaos’
Regardless of how exactly the breakup between Kevin Costner and series creator Taylor Sheridan went down, it’s a sure thing that the actor’s character John Dutton is out for the rest of season 5, as 5b was filmed without him, and a source had exclusively told Life & Style in September plans for the sixth season are in turmoil.
The real question being fought out among the cast is who will be the next big star in the series now that Kevin’s has made his exit. “Certain cast members are already throwing their weight around a lot more than before,” the source said.
“It’s created chaos already and will only get worse assuming Season 6 does go ahead as seems to be planned.”
