Kevin Costner has always been synonymous with rugged individualism, larger-than-life heroes, and the American West. His portrayal of John Dutton in Yellowstone elevated him to iconic status, drawing millions of viewers into the world of modern-day ranching, family loyalty, and brutal power struggles. Yet, after years of playing the patriarch of the Dutton family, Costner has made the difficult decision to leave the show, a move that has left fans both stunned and heartbroken.

The reasons behind Costner’s exit from Yellowstone are varied and complex, with reports citing disputes over contracts, film scheduling conflicts, and perhaps a sense that it was time for him to step away from the role. Costner has repeatedly mentioned his passion for his new project, the Horizon film series, a four-part Western that he is deeply invested in. Despite his love for Yellowstone and the success it brought him—culminating in his third Golden Globe award for the role of John Dutton—Costner seems intent on leaving the past behind and diving into a new creative venture.

Costner himself commented on how his work on Horizon felt like it came from a different time, quipping that it felt like “thirty-five years ago,” referring to his long history with the Western genre. His commitment to this new project is evident, with Part Two of Horizon already completed, and Parts Three and Four on the horizon, literally. However, despite his enthusiasm for his new work, there’s no denying the shadow that Yellowstone casts over his career. The show, which follows the high-stakes drama surrounding the Dutton family and their sprawling ranch, has captivated audiences for five seasons, and Costner’s performance has been at its heart.

In the wake of Costner’s departure, Yellowstone faced a significant hurdle. Taylor Sheridan, the creator of the show, had to make the bold decision to kill off John Dutton off-screen, a move that derailed much of the planned narrative for the show’s fifth season. While this shift left many viewers disappointed, it’s clear that Sheridan is not one to let such a loss define the series. Instead, he is now working on multiple Yellowstone spin-offs to continue the saga of the Dutton family.

Sheridan’s ability to expand the Yellowstone universe is no surprise. From 1883 to the upcoming 1923, these prequels have provided viewers with rich backstories to the Dutton family’s rise to power and the enduring legacy of their ranching empire. There’s even the 6666 spin-off, which promises to bring more of the modern-day cowboy life to the forefront. While Costner’s absence leaves a hole at the center of Yellowstone, it’s clear that the Dutton legacy won’t die with John Dutton.

For fans who are hoping for a return of Costner’s iconic role, don’t give up just yet. In an interview with People, Costner hinted that he could return to Yellowstone in the future, though only if the circumstances and creative direction align with his vision. He admitted that he would be open to returning to “finish the mythology of this modern-day family.” So, while his departure from the show may seem final, it’s possible that Costner could make a return—perhaps in flashbacks, or even a grand comeback in a future installment.

As Yellowstone continues to evolve, one question remains: How will the Duttons move forward without John Dutton at the helm? The answer lies in the hands of Taylor Sheridan, who has already demonstrated his knack for keeping audiences hooked with complex characters and brutal storytelling. While Costner may have walked away from the ranch, it’s clear that Yellowstone will keep pushing forward, building on its rich narrative foundation, and finding new ways to explore the American West.