In a twist that has rocked Hollywood, Kevin Costner has been blindsided by the stunning announcement that his ex-wife, Christine Baumgartner, is now engaged to her new boyfriend, financier Josh Connor. What’s more shocking? Costner reportedly learned about the engagement not through official channels, but from one of their children, leaving the Yellowstone star feeling “totally taken by surprise.”
The Engagement That Shocked Hollywood
Christine Baumgartner, the former wife of A-list actor Kevin Costner, confirmed her engagement to Josh Connor, a financier, in a heart-stopping revelation. The couple has reportedly been together since July 2023 and got engaged during a romantic proposal on a secluded beach in Santa Barbara in January 2025. This blissful moment came nearly a year after Christine’s divorce from Costner was finalized in February 2024, bringing the curtains down on a highly publicized and contentious split.
Their divorce, which had involved intense disputes over child support, financial transparency, and allegations of extramarital affairs, kept the tabloids on edge for months. Both Christine and Kevin expressed a desire to maintain amicable relations for the sake of their three children. However, this new engagement is raising questions about how smooth or painful that post-divorce relationship truly is.
The Emotional Impact on Kevin Costner
What has fans and Hollywood insiders buzzing the most, however, is the emotional toll on Kevin Costner. According to sources close to the situation, Costner was “taken by surprise” when he learned of Christine’s engagement. The most heartbreaking detail is that he did not hear the news directly from Christine, but from one of their children. This revelation paints a picture of Kevin’s emotional state following the announcement, leaving him reportedly blindsided and feeling the weight of this new chapter in his ex-wife’s life.
Despite the bombshell news, Costner has remained optimistic about his own future. Sources reveal that the Yellowstone star has been seen spending time with singer Jewel, though he clarified that they are just close friends with no romantic involvement. Kevin has made it clear that while his ex-wife moves quickly into a new relationship, he is hopeful for love in his own life as well.
As Christine Baumgartner embarks on this new chapter with Josh Connor, it is clear she is eager to leave the past behind. Her engagement marks the next step in her journey toward personal happiness and fulfillment. But what does this mean for Kevin Costner and his relationship with their children? How will this news affect the dynamic within the Costner family, especially as it unfolds in the public eye?
The Ripple Effect on the Family
As Christine takes a bold step toward her future, Kevin’s reaction suggests deeper emotional undercurrents that fans will be keeping a close eye on. Will Kevin find peace with his ex-wife’s remarriage, or will this development trigger further tension in his personal life? The world is watching, and the Costner family saga is far from over.