**Kevin Costner Finally Speaks: The Truth Behind Luke Grimes’ Yellowstone Comments**

Even though *Yellowstone* has officially ended, the drama surrounding the show continues to make headlines. Kevin Costner, who played the iconic role of John Dutton, recently reacted to comments made by his former co-star Luke Grimes, who portrayed Casey Dutton.

Grimes has been candid in interviews about Costner’s departure and John Dutton’s shocking death in the first episode of *Yellowstone* Season 5, Part 2. Now, Costner is finally addressing the controversy, shedding light on the tension behind the scenes.

Luke Grimes’ Surprising Comments

In a recent interview with *Esquire*, Luke Grimes opened up about filming the final season of *Yellowstone* without Kevin Costner. His comments raised eyebrows when he admitted that Costner’s absence made things easier on set.

“To be really honest, there was a part of Kevin being gone that meant some of the conflict was gone,” Grimes said. “It didn’t make it super fun to be around… but it was actually the easiest season we filmed.”

Grimes’ remarks suggested that Costner’s creative input and advice during production may have caused tension with the cast and crew, including series creator Taylor Sheridan.

Fans were quick to defend Costner, pointing out his extensive experience as an actor, director, and executive producer, as well as his two Academy Awards. Many believe that Costner’s involvement in earlier seasons contributed to the show’s success and that his absence negatively impacted the final season.

In another interview with *Men’s Health*, Grimes revealed that he hasn’t spoken to Costner since his departure from the show. “It’s not a case of any hard feelings or anything,” Grimes explained. “He’s Kevin Costner…

he’s a big deal. I do have his phone number, but I just don’t feel like it’s my place to reach out. He can reach out to me if he wants to.”

Kevin Costner’s Response

When asked about *Yellowstone*’s ending and Grimes’ comments, Costner remained composed but distant. During a recent trip to Aspen, a reporter from the *Daily Mail* caught up with him outside a restaurant and asked for his thoughts on the show’s conclusion. Costner replied, “I’m not even thinking about that. I don’t think I’ve given it any thoughts. We’ll just let it go.”

When questioned about Grimes specifically, Costner simply said, “We’re done talking,” before laughing and walking away. While it’s unclear if Costner was referring to his relationship with Grimes or the reporter, his response suggests he’s ready to move on from the *Yellowstone* chapter of his life.

Was There Tension Between Costner and the Cast?

Grimes’ comments, along with remarks from other cast members, have fueled speculation about Costner’s relationship with the rest of the *Yellowstone* team. Kelly Reilly, who played Beth Dutton, added to the intrigue when she was asked which Dutton family member she’d go on a ride with. Reilly responded, “Not the person, it’s the character.

Then I’m going to go for a ride with John Dutton.” Her clarification sparked debates among fans about whether there was tension between Costner and his co-stars.

John Dutton’s Death: A Creative Decision?

Grimes also revealed that John Dutton’s death was always part of the plan, though it was initially supposed to happen much earlier in the series.

“I think originally he was supposed to die much earlier so that his children could see whether they could do things on their own,” Grimes said. However, fans believe that Costner’s departure accelerated the decision to kill off the character.

Despite the drama, Costner has remained graceful, hinting that there might be more to John Dutton’s story. “They’re pretty smart people,” he said. “Maybe it’s a red herring. Who knows?”

Moving On

While *Yellowstone* has ended, the legacy of the show—and the controversies surrounding it—will linger. Costner’s departure marked the end of an era for the hit series, but his iconic portrayal of John Dutton will undoubtedly remain a highlight of his career.

As for his relationship with the cast, it seems Costner has chosen to leave the tension behind and focus on the next chapter of his life.