Yellowstonestar Luke Grimes has candidly addressed Kevin Costner’s exit in season 5 ahead of the show’s final episode, explaining why “it was time.” Prior toYellowstoneseason 5 part 2, it was announced Costner would be exiting the series following disagreements with show creator Taylor Sheridan, alongside needing time to focus on his Western film seriesHorizon: An American Saga. In light of this change, season 5 part 2 began by killing off his character, family patriarch John Dutton, laying the groundwork for the rest of the final season’s many dramatic events.
Speaking withEsquire, Grimes, who plays Kayce Dutton, explained howCostner’s exit fromYellowstoneseason 5 felt like it happened at the moment it needed to for the show. The actor explained how, although he didn’t want to aim blame anywhere, production of the final episodes was the smoothest they’d ever had, since there was no timing conflict around filming the lead actor’s scenes. Check out what Grimes had to say below:
Hopefully everyone can see that it was time. To be really honest, there was a part of Kevin being gone that meant some of the conflict was gone. Obviously, it didn’t make it super fun to be around. Not pointing any fingers, but it was actually the easiest season we’ve filmed.
What Grimes' Statement Says About Costner’s Yellowstone Exit
It Was Seemingly Inevitable He Would Go
The final episode of the neo-Western is drawing near, with the final fate of the Dutton family’s Ranch prepared to be revealed in the super-sized series finale. In addition, aYellowstonespinoff starring Beth and Riphas been confirmed, meaningthe franchise will soon be moving on from Costner’s presence in the franchise wholesale. Given that timing was a core factor in why the lead actor and Sheridan parted ways, Grimes' statement makes sense, as they wouldn’t need to work around one person’s schedule while making new episodes.
Is Yellowstone Season 6 Happening? Confusion Over Taylor Sheridan’s Neo-Western Hit’s Future Explained
Although Paramount previously announced Yellowstone would be coming to an end with season 5, reports have claimed the show’s story will continue.
However, that hasn’t stopped criticism of the show’s final stretch, with someYellowstoneseason 5 episode reviewslamenting Costner’s absence as detrimental to the series. Since John had such a large presence within the show,his sudden departure has left a hole in the Dutton familythat, for many, hasn’t been filled yet, even as the series hurtles to an end. Luckily, there are still more stories left to be told involving the show’s core characters, with the franchise’s evolution after the main series proving Grimes right in the long-run.
Our Take On Grimes' Statement About Costner Leaving Yellowstone
He’ll Be A Tough Act To Follow
While Costner’s exit might mean smoother filming schedules forYellowstone’s continuation into the future, his palpable absence from season 5 part 2 means his presence will always be hovering over the series. While Beth and Rip’s show has a chance to differentiate itself from the original, the franchise will need some time to heal over the loss of its lead. Even so, Grimes' statement indicates production going forward will be smoother, meaning there could be a faster turnaround time for the spinoff than anticipated.
The final episode ofYellowstone, “Life is A Promise,” airs Sunday, December 15 at 8 p.m. ET.
Yellowstone
Cast
Yellowstone follows the Dutton family, led by patriarch John Dutton, as they defend their expansive ranch against external threats from land developers, an Indian reservation, and America’s first national park. Released on August 10, 2025, this series examines the complex dynamics and violent conflicts surrounding the largest contiguous ranch in the United States.
