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The Express Gazette
Wednesday, September 16, 2026

Kevin Costner and Ex-Wife Christine Baumgartner Seen at Son's Volleyball Game Amidst New Romance Rumors

The former couple maintained distance at their son Hayes's Santa Barbara game, days after Costner was photographed with lifestyle coach Jennifer Milburn.

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Kevin Costner and Ex-Wife Christine Baumgartner Seen at Son's Volleyball Game Amidst New Romance Rumors

Kevin Costner and his ex-wife Christine Baumgartner were photographed at their son Hayes's beach volleyball game in Santa Barbara, maintaining a noticeable distance from each other. The appearance comes just days after Costner was seen in a public outing with lifestyle coach Jennifer Milburn, 31 years his junior.

The former spouses, who finalized their divorce in February 2024 after a contentious battle over finances and assets, were seen on the sidelines supporting their 17-year-old son. Costner, 71, was dressed in an all-white ensemble, while Baumgartner, 52, opted for a casual green t-shirt, white jeans, and a baseball cap. Although they were at times only feet apart, they appeared to keep to themselves and did not engage in lengthy conversations.

Baumgartner was seen speaking with her son separately, accompanied by another woman. Costner, meanwhile, was observed occasionally leaving his chair to mingle with other spectators and chat with his son on the sand after the game. He was later seen packing up his belongings as the event concluded.

This reunion occurs as both Costner and Baumgartner appear to be moving on from their marriage. Baumgartner married financier Josh Connor in October of the previous year. Costner's romantic life has been the subject of recent speculation following exclusive photos of him with Jennifer Milburn. The two were seen stocking up on groceries at a supermarket in Santa Barbara, with onlookers describing their interaction as "extremely affectionate."

Milburn, who has a background as a Delta flight attendant and previously worked at western retailer Kemo Sabe in Aspen, has connections to Costner's properties in Colorado. She currently holds a remote position as director of partnerships for Simon Sinek's The Optimism Company. Costner's expansive Dunbar Ranch in Colorado has been described as a "mini town" and is a property he splits his time with his California home.

Costner, twice divorced, was also reported last year to be in a "private and casual" romance with filmmaker Kelly Noonan Gores. His previous outing with Milburn has reignited speculation about his current relationship status. The grocery store outing with Milburn was captured by Daily Mail photographers, showing a casually dressed Costner appearing relaxed and smiling alongside Milburn as she selected items at the meat counter. They were later seen returning to Costner's vehicle in the parking lot.

Costner and Baumgartner share three children: Hayes, Cayden, and Grace. Their divorce proceedings in 2023 revealed significant financial details, with Baumgartner at one point requesting $248,000 per month in child support. Ultimately, Costner was ordered to pay $63,209 monthly in child support for their three children, along with a $1.5 million personal payment to his ex-wife.


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