Kevin Costner‘s ex-wife, Christine Baumgartner, has moved on less than a year after their nasty divorce was finalized. After a year of dating, the bag designer is now engaged to her financier boyfriend, Josh Connor. However, the twist is that Baumgartner’s new man is former friends with the Yellowstone actor and was even dragged into their divorce.
Baumgartner and Connor took their romance to the next level on January 26. He popped the big question during an intimate beachside dinner for two in Santa Barbara. “It was about to rain, so almost no one else was on the beach when Josh got down on one knee,” a source told People Magazine. The proposal, however, wasn’t shocking to their inner circle, who saw it coming.
“They spent Christmas in New York together last month, where it all began. They are both over the moon and excited for their future together.”
The lovebirds’ relationship dates back to January 2024 and has a twisted connection to Baumgartner’s former marriage. Connor was a former neighbor who got dragged into the divorce on speculations of infidelity. Two months after filing for divorce from The Bodyguard actor in May 2023, Baumgartner enjoyed a vacation to Hawaii with Connor. They were joined by her four kids, whom she shares with Costner.
The handbag designer insisted they were only friends when their relationship was brought up during a child support hearing in August 2023. However, months later, Costner’s ex-wife was photographed holding hands with the younger financier.
Kevin Costner Was Right About Infidelity, Fans Declare
It wasn’t until January 2024 that Connor and Baumgartner were confirmed as an item. A close friend of the socialite revealed at the time:
“Christine and Josh’s relationship started as a friendship, so they have a really strong foundation. They share the same values, and she feels so happy and supported in this new relationship.”
The insider further added, “Her friends and family have been incredibly supportive of her relationship with Josh. Everyone can tell how happy they are together.” It is unclear if Kevin Costner is part of those “happy” for Baumgartner, as a source told US Weekly he suspected an affair.
“Kevin had strong suspicions that something was going on between Christine and Josh. Their close [bond] was a real elephant in the room.”
Fans online feel the actor is now vindicated thanks to his ex-wife’s engagement.
“Trust your instincts, Mr. Costner,” urged a fan. “When your soon-to-be ex-wife was seen with your former friend and her new love interest in Hawaii, less than two months after separating from you. It is a fair assumption.”
“Costner’s suspicions were probably right. She was two-timing him,” another fan suggested.
“It was a double betrayal,” this user slammed. “Doubtful a wedding will materialize. They did Costner dirty.”
Kevin Costner has not commented publicly on his ex-wife’s engagement, but he seems vindicated.
