Fast Links
After staying married for nearly 20 years, Christine Baumgartner and Kevin Costner have parted ways. The recent news of Baumgartner and Costner’s divorce came as a big shock to many, who believed the couple’s love would last forever. Although the stars were mostly private about their romance, the love they shared was very visible. The Yellowstone actor even claimed he didn’t want their love to end. Overall, Baumgartner and Costner seemed like a match made in heaven, as they inspired many young couples. But sadly, fans have now witnessed the end of the pair’s marital bliss. Here is a timeline of Baumgartner and Costner’s relationship.
When and Where Did the Pair Meet?
Christine Baumgartner and Kevin Costner first encountered each other in the 1980s. They crossed paths on a golf course where Costner was rehearsing for his 1996 romantic comedy Tin Cup. At the time, the actor was still married to his first wife, Cindy Silva, with whom he shares three children. However, in 1994, Costner and Silva’s marriage ended, and the former became romantically involved with Bridget Rooney. Sadly, the pair’s romance was short-lived and yielded one child.
In 1999, following his split from Rooney, Costner ran into Baumgartner at a restaurant. Recalling how their reunion went, the actor said he and Baumgartner exchanged numbers. Then, Costner asked for permission to call the bag designer in two weeks, which he said seemed like an insult to Baumgartner. Nevertheless, not long after, they started dating.
Costner and Baumgartner Nearly Split
In 2003, Christine Baumgartner and Kevin Costner nearly broke up due to the former’s fear of having kids. Already a dad of four before dating Baumgartner, Costner said his girlfriend wanted a child. However, he had fears of being an ineffective father, which nearly cost him his relationship with Baumgartner. According to the Waterworld star, all it took to change his mind was asking himself if losing Baumgartner was worth it.
Christine Baumgartner and Kevin Costner’s Marriage
After reassuring himself that his love for Baumgartner was greater than his fears, Costner took the relationship to the next level. In 2004, the pair exchanged marital vows. The wedding was a storybook affair and took place on Costner’s 160-acre ranch, The Dunbar, in Aspen. The actor arrived in a horse-drawn carriage, while Baumgartner came to the ceremony in a green vintage truck. The Dunbar, named after Costner’s Dances with Wolves character, is still owned by Costner and is now available as a private wedding venue.
Christine Baumgartner and Kevin Costner Become Parents
Three years after tying the knot, Christine Baumgartner and Kevin Costner expanded their family. The former lovebirds welcomed their son, Cayden, in May 2007. In February 2009, the pair’s second son, Hayes, joined the family. Then in 2010, the parents welcomed their third child and daughter, Grace Avery. Besides her children, Baumgartner was a stepmom to Costner’s four children, Liam, Joe, Lily, and Annie.
Costner Praises His Family
Costner, a family man, always spoke highly of his kids and estranged wife. The actor once confessed that his family made him appreciate life more. The father of seven described his family as magic, adding that he enjoyed the times when he was “just a father.” Costner further relayed that in life, he had played two roles — movies and fatherhood. According to Costner, he was paid to do the former, but the latter would reward him his whole life. Besides speaking of his family, Costner shared the secret of a happy family. He explained that saying sorry was as important as “I love you.” According to the entertainment star, even though it seemed simple, it was one of the most difficult things to do.
Baumgartner Files for Divorce
Baumgartner and Costner’s divorce news came nearly five months shy of their 19th wedding anniversary. According to reports, the mom-of-three filed for divorce on May 1, 2023. In a statement, the actor’s representative shared that the ex-couple parted ways due to circumstances beyond Costner’s control. The representative also beseeched the public to respect Christine, Costner, and their children’s privacy.
Regarding the reason for Baumgartner and Costner’s divorce, the former cited irreconcilable differences. Meanwhile, the actor has filed his response to the divorce and is seeking joint custody of the kids. It has also been revealed that the estranged couple had a prenup, and spousal support will only be paid according to the agreement.