Kevin Costner’s Heartbreak: Ex-Wife Engaged to Close Acquaintance

Kevin Costner is reportedly grappling with emotional turmoil following the engagement of his ex-wife, Christine Baumgartner, to financier Josh Connor. Baumgartner’s relationship with Connor, who was once part of Costner’s social circle, has moved swiftly since their divorce was finalized in February 2024, after nearly twenty years of marriage.

The couple, who share three children—Cayden, 17, Hayes, 15, and Grace, 14—officially ended their marriage following a separation in May 2023. Sources indicate that Costner, 70, is feeling “deeply unsettled” by the news of Baumgartner’s engagement, which became public in January 2025 when she was seen wearing a diamond ring during a trip to Montecito.

Baumgartner and Connor met several years ago through mutual friends in Santa Barbara, where both families have longstanding ties. Reports suggest their friendship deepened after Costner and Baumgartner’s divorce, with the pair reportedly traveling together in late 2024. While some media outlets have described Connor as one of Costner’s “closest friends,” verified reports clarify that they were more accurately acquaintances through community and school events.

Costner’s Reaction and Focus on Family

Since the engagement announcement, Costner has not publicly addressed Baumgartner’s relationship. Representatives for the actor have declined to comment on personal matters. Sources close to the production of his upcoming film, Horizon: An American Saga, shared with Entertainment Tonight that Costner has remained focused on his work and children amid the emotional challenges of his ex-wife moving on.

According to RadarOnline, Costner has privately struggled with the pace of Baumgartner’s new romance, describing it as “difficult to process” following their lengthy legal battle. Friends have characterized him as “emotional” about the situation, although Costner’s team has not confirmed these claims.

Public reaction to the news has been mixed. Fans have expressed sympathy for Costner, while others have criticized the rapid progression of Baumgartner’s new relationship. Conversely, some have applauded her for moving forward. Baumgartner has largely refrained from commenting on her former husband, instead choosing to appear relaxed while shopping in Montecito and attending events with Connor.

Creative Pursuits Amid Personal Challenges

Professionally, Costner remains committed to Horizon: An American Saga, an ambitious Western epic. The first installment premiered to strong box office performance earlier this year, and he is currently overseeing post-production for the second part, which is slated for release in early 2026. Those close to the Oscar-winning actor describe him as “channeling emotion into creativity,” emphasizing his determination to maintain stability for his children amid renewed media interest.

As tabloids continue to scrutinize his personal life, Costner is focused on his career and his family, striving to keep the spotlight on his professional achievements rather than his ex-wife’s new relationship. Friends have noted that he remains resilient, navigating this challenging time while prioritizing his children’s well-being.