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In a surprising turn of events that has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, Hollywood veteran Kevin Costner has officially announced his departure from the hit Paramount Network series “Yellowstone.” The 69-year-old actor, who has portrayed the formidable John Dutton since the show’s inception in 2018, shared the news via a heartfelt video message on social media Thursday evening.

Costner’s announcement comes after months of speculation and rumors surrounding his future with the show. In the video, the actor addressed fans directly, saying, “I just want to reach out and let you know that after this long year and a half of working on Horizon and doing all the things that’s required, and thinking about ‘Yellowstone,’ that beloved series that I love, that I know you love. I just realized that I’m not going to be able to continue, season five or into the future.”

The actor’s decision appears to be primarily motivated by his commitment to “Horizon,” a passion project that has been decades in the making. This western epic, which Costner has described as his magnum opus, recently debuted at the Cannes Film Festival to mixed reviews. With the first part of “Horizon” set to hit theaters on June 28, followed by the second installment on August 16, it’s clear that Costner’s focus has shifted to this ambitious undertaking.

Costner’s relationship with “Yellowstone” has been a topic of intense discussion in recent months. Earlier this week, during an appearance on TODAY, the actor had hinted at a potential return to the series “under the right circumstances,” leaving fans hopeful. However, Thursday’s announcement seems to have put those hopes to rest.

In his video message, Costner expressed his deep appreciation for the show and its impact on his career. “It’s something that really changed me,” he said, adding, “I loved it and I know you loved it, and I just wanted to let you know that I won’t be returning. I love the relationship we’ve been able to develop, and I’ll see you at the movies.”

The actor’s departure from “Yellowstone” marks the end of an era for the series, which has become a cultural phenomenon and one of the most-watched shows on cable television. Costner’s portrayal of John Dutton, the patriarch of a powerful ranching family in Montana, has been central to the show’s success and appeal.

The news comes amidst reported tensions between Costner and the show’s production team. Last spring, rumors circulated about disagreements over contract obligations and filming schedules. Costner had initially agreed to film seasons five, six, and seven of the show but expressed dissatisfaction with the decision to split season five into two parts, effectively creating an additional season.

As fans grapple with the news of Costner’s departure, questions arise about the future of “Yellowstone.” The show’s creators, including Taylor Sheridan, now face the challenge of continuing the series without its leading man. While the “Yellowstone” universe has already expanded with successful spin-offs like “1883” and “1923,” the absence of Costner’s John Dutton will undoubtedly leave a significant void.

For Costner, this departure marks a new chapter in his illustrious career. With “Horizon,” he returns to the director’s chair for the first time since 2003’s “Open Range.” The project, which Costner has described as a “saga” spanning 15 years of pre- and post-Civil War expansion and settlement of the American West, represents a culmination of his lifelong fascination with the genre that helped define his career.

As “Yellowstone” fans come to terms with this significant change, the entertainment industry watches with keen interest to see how the show will evolve and how Costner’s new venture will be received. One thing is certain: Kevin Costner’s impact on “Yellowstone” will be felt long after his final appearance, cementing his legacy in the annals of television history.