Luke Grimes Hasn't Spoken to Kevin Costner Since 'Yellowstone' Exit

Luke Grimes stated that he has not communicated with his former "Yellowstone" co-star Kevin Costner since Costner's departure from the series in 2024. Grimes, who portrays Kayce Dutton on the hit Western drama, told USA Today that there is no animosity between them, attributing the lack of contact to their busy schedules.

"I have never spoken to Kevin since we stopped working together," Grimes said in a recent interview. "Not for any other reason other than we are both just busy guys and life moves on."

Grimes, currently the lead in the "Yellowstone" spinoff "Marshals" on CBS, expressed doubt that Costner would reprise his role as John Dutton in any capacity within the franchise. He suggested that if a flashback were to occur, he would prefer it involve his on-screen wife, Monica, played by Kelsey Asbille, over Costner's character.

"If there was a flashback, I would want it to be with [Kayce’s wife] Monica than John," Grimes explained. "I think that would be more poignant to the character, but we will see."

Costner's exit from "Yellowstone" occurred during its fifth and final season, amidst reports of disagreements with series creator Taylor Sheridan. Sheridan himself commented on Costner's departure, stating that the actor had initially wished to leave the show after three seasons but was persuaded to stay for two additional seasons due to the show's significant success.

"He was ready to go," Sheridan stated on the "Bill Simmons Podcast." "He had other things he wanted to do."

Sheridan elaborated that the network's strong desire to capitalize on "Yellowstone's" immense popularity led to pressure for Costner to extend his involvement. He noted that the show had become such a substantial hit that networks were hesitant to let it conclude while it still had significant viewership.

Costner's recent film project, "Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 1," released in June 2024, did not achieve box office success. The actor had reportedly mortgaged land to finance the Western film.

"Marshals," which stars Grimes as a U.S. Marshal in Montana, is currently in its second season. The series is the fourth television project within the expanding "Yellowstone" universe.