Yellowstone fans were initially unsure if Kevin Costner would return for the show’s final episodes, but rumors suggest he might make an appearance. It is unclear how the series will end if Costner does not return, with possible narrative shifts to address his character John Dutton’s absence. Potential storylines could include a big event explaining his disappearance or a protective move to shield his family from an enemy. If Costner does not return, the focus of the final episodes will likely shift to the children and ranch hands and their relationships, conflicts, and alliances.
The first half of Yellowstone’s fifth season aired from November 2022 to January 2023, with the second half set to premiere later in 2023. Filming was delayed due to reported tensions between Costner and cocreator Taylor Sheridan over the production schedule. Paramount confirmed in May 2023 that the fifth season would be its last, disappointing fans who hoped Costner would return. However, in court documents related to his divorce from ex-wife Christine Baumgartner in September 2023, Costner claimed he had completed his work on Yellowstone in 2022, hinting that he would not be back for the final episodes.
The first half of season five ended on a cliffhanger, with Jamie calling for his father’s impeachment and John seemingly planning to team up with Beth to have Jamie murdered. Despite the unresolved plotlines for John Dutton, Costner’s legal team stated that he would not be involved in any future episodes of the show. Recent reports suggest that Costner might make a cameo in the final episodes, although Sheridan did not include John in the scripts. It is speculated that Costner may be trying to leverage his popularity with fans to secure a return to the show.
Sheridan has previously stated that there is no bad blood between him and Costner, praising the actor’s portrayal of John Dutton as symbolic and powerful. He emphasized that any issues between them could be resolved through communication. As the uncertainty surrounding Costner’s return to Yellowstone continues, fans eagerly await any updates on his status with the show. Ultimately, the decision on whether Costner will make a return for the final episodes remains unknown, leaving viewers curious about how the series will conclude and if John Dutton’s storyline will be resolved in a satisfying manner.
