Kevin Costner opened up about the pain of his divorce from Christine Baumgartner, but he emphasized the importance of moving forward for his children. Now, the 'Horizon' star shares what he's looking for in a romantic partner.
Kevin Costner's love life has been a rollercoaster in recent years. The "Horizon" star endured a grueling nine-month divorce battle with his second wife, Christine Baumgartner, which culminated in a bittersweet settlement in February.
In a candid interview with "CBS Mornings," Costner described the divorce as a "crushing moment."
Kevin Costner's Heartbreak and Redemption: Seeking Love After Divorce
"It was powerful. It hurt. But I go forward. I have no choice. My children are looking at me, so I can't wilt like a daisy. I have to go forward. I have to continue to be who I am and keep a special eye on who they are," he said.
Costner and Baumgartner were married for 18 years before she filed for divorce on May 1, 2023, citing "irreconcilable differences." The estranged couple reached a settlement agreement in September, sources told Fox News Digital at the time.
Kevin Costner's Heartbreak and Redemption: Seeking Love After Divorce
Before the divorce was finalized, Costner exclusively told Fox News Digital that there are no winners in such situations.
"You know, when you have a life that long with somebody, there is no winner… and it's this big, crazy thing called life and how it unravels so quickly," he said. "One minute you feel like you're on top of the world, and then you realize how… vulnerable you are."
Kevin Costner's Heartbreak and Redemption: Seeking Love After Divorce
Despite the heartache, Costner has shown resilience and a determination to move forward. He recently shared with Fox News Digital what he's looking for in a romantic partner.
"I'm looking for somebody that wants to be loved," he said. "Somebody that wants to have a family."
Costner is a father of seven children from three relationships. He and Baumgartner have three children together: Cayden, 17; Hayes, 15; and Grace, 14.
The actor believes that a strong foundation of mutual respect is crucial in any relationship.
"I think respect is the most important thing," he said. "Respect for who they are, respect for what they want, respect for what they need."
Costner is also looking for a partner who shares his values and priorities.
"I think it's important to have somebody that you're compatible with, somebody that you can talk to, somebody that you can laugh with, somebody that you can cry with," he said. "Somebody that you can just be yourself around."
Costner is not in a rush to find love again, but he is open to the possibility.
"I'm not looking for anybody right now," he said. "But if the right person comes along, I'm open to it."
In the meantime, Costner is focused on his career and his children. He is currently starring in the Paramount+ series "Horizon," which tells the epic story of the American West.
Costner is also finding solace in his work.
"I've been able to find a way to express myself through my work," he said. "That's been a really important part of my healing."
Costner's journey through heartbreak and redemption is a testament to the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity. He has shown that even in the face of loss, it is possible to find hope and a brighter future.
