‘Yellowstone’ Director Confirms Kevin Costner’s Character Remains Key in Final Episodes Despite His Exit

John Dutton’s position as the patriarch of the Dutton family will not change, even if Kevin Costner leaves ‘Yellowstone’.

Christina Voros, who directed four of the last six episodes, offered some thoughts on how Costner’s character, John Dutton, will continue to play a significant part as the much anticipated final episodes get near. “His presence is integral,” Voros stated in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, adding that although she was unable to provide specifics, John Dutton’s influence is essential to the plot. She underlined, “He is the patriarch and his presence is an essential component of the story.”

Image Courtesy: People

After lengthy negotiations between Costner and Taylor Sheridan, the creator of ‘Yellowstone’, production on the final episodes of the series started in May. Costner told PEOPLE that delays in the screenplay process were the reason behind his decision, expressing displeasure about misunderstandings surrounding his departure. “The program halted for 14 months. That is the reality. He claimed that he felt unsupported by the show’s crew and that he might have accomplished a lot in that period.

“I’m not going to be able to continue with Season 5b or beyond,” Costner said in a June video announcing his retirement, calling ‘Yellowstone’ a “beloved series that I love.”

Image Courtesy: People

Cast members are happy with the series’ conclusion despite the back and forth. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Luke Grimes, who plays Kayce Dutton, expressed his excitement for the conclusion, describing it as a “profound, beautiful ending.” He was echoed by Kelly Reilly, who plays Beth Dutton, who called the finished screenplays “exceptional.”

 10th November the final episodes of ‘Yellowstone’ Season 5 will air on the Paramount Network.

–Farheen Ali