**Kevin Costner Opens Up About Heartbreak Following 18-Year Marriage**
Kevin Costner has candidly shared the emotional toll of his 2023 divorce from Christine Baumgartner, his wife of 18 years. The split, which he described as a “crushing moment,” left a deep impact on the actor and filmmaker.
Reflecting on the heartbreak, Costner admitted, “It hurt deeply,” but emphasized the importance of resilience, particularly for the sake of their three children: Cayden, 17, Hayes, 15, and Grace, 14. “I can’t wilt like a daisy; I have to go forward,” he said, expressing his determination to stay strong for his family.
During this difficult time, Costner found solace and purpose in his work. He poured his energy into his long-cherished passion project, *Horizon: An American Saga*.
The Western epic, which had been a dream of his since 1988, became a source of focus and healing. Costner invested $38 million of his own money into the film, a testament to his dedication and belief in the project. Despite the personal challenges he faced, he described completing the film as a “level of victory.”
In interviews, Costner has spoken about how *Horizon* helped him navigate the pain of his divorce. The ambitious project allowed him to channel his emotions into something meaningful, providing a sense of accomplishment amid the turmoil.
The film, set against the backdrop of the American West, reflects Costner’s deep connection to storytelling and his commitment to bringing his creative vision to life.
As for his personal life, Costner remains open to the idea of finding love again. While acknowledging the heartbreak of his divorce, he expressed hope for the future, stating, “People are supposed to be together.”
He added, “I’m not going to let anything harden my heart.” However, as of early 2025, Costner has not been publicly linked to anyone romantically. His focus appears to be on his children and his work, as he continues to rebuild his life after the end of his marriage.
Meanwhile, Christine Baumgartner has reportedly moved on and is in a relationship with Josh Connor, a former friend of Costner. While the news may have added to the challenges of navigating life post-divorce, Costner has chosen to focus on his journey forward, rather than dwelling on the past.
Costner’s resilience and optimism have been evident throughout this challenging period. Despite the pain of his divorce, he has remained committed to his family, his work, and his belief in love. His journey serves as a reminder of the strength it takes to move forward after heartbreak and the importance of staying true to one’s passions and values.
As he continues to balance his roles as a father, filmmaker, and individual, Costner’s story is one of perseverance, hope, and the enduring power of creativity to heal and inspire.