Kevin Costner has finally spoken out about Yellowstone’s divisive conclusion, and his take is nothing short of brutally honest. In a recent interview with ET while promoting his upcoming docuseries The West alongside historian Doris Kearns Goodwin, the Oscar-winning actor didn’t hold back when reflecting on the legacy of the Dutton family.
Costner, who portrayed patriarch John Dutton, admitted that although the show masterfully portrayed “modern-day ranching” and the rugged beauty of the American West, the characters themselves weren’t exactly heroes. “We should all be in prison,” Costner said, referencing the morally complex and often criminal behavior of the Dutton family throughout the series.
Yellowstone officially concluded on December 15, 2024, after five explosive seasons. The ending sparked controversy, especially due to Costner’s sudden departure and the decision to kill off John Dutton, a move that divided longtime fans. While Costner cited his passion project Horizon: An American Saga as a key reason for leaving, his comments suggest deeper creative misgivings about where the story ended up.
Despite the drama, Costner praised the show’s impact and visual storytelling, calling it a “beautiful lens” into a changing American way of life. However, his candid remark underscores his belief that the Duttons’ actions — from land grabs to cover-ups and violent confrontations — were far from noble.
As The West gears up to premiere on May 26 on the History Channel, Costner is clearly turning the page, but not without one last, unapologetic reflection on the flawed dynasty that helped define his modern Western legacy.
