Kevin Costner’s personal life has been making headlines ever since his ex-wife, Christine Baumgartner, filed for divorce. But what really shocked fans was who Christine began dating soon after their split—a man who was not just a friend, but also Costner’s former neighbor, Josh Connor.
In July 2023, Christine and Josh were spotted vacationing together in Hawaii, enjoying the sun and sand with Christine’s kids. Photos captured moments of intimacy, including Josh placing a hand on Christine’s leg, and the pair leaving together at sunset.
Despite these public displays, Christine and her lawyer insisted during divorce proceedings that Josh was simply a family friend. However, by January 2024, just three months after the divorce was finalized, Christine was seen dropping Josh off at his Montecito home, just minutes from her own.
Exclusive photos showed Josh, suitcase in hand, stepping out of Christine’s car—fueling rumors that their relationship was more than platonic.
Insiders revealed that Christine and Josh’s romance had been brewing for some time. Their daughters are best friends, and their families have been close for years.
Josh, a financier and recently divorced dad himself, officially became single just five months before Christine filed for divorce from Costner. The two families often spent time together, and sources say Christine and Josh began seeing each other more frequently after their respective divorces.
While Christine denied any romantic involvement during her divorce hearings, she admitted that Josh had loaned her $20,000 to help support her family during the financial upheaval.
She claimed half the money went to help her mother, filling the gap left when Kevin stopped providing financial support to Christine’s parent after the divorce filing.
Meanwhile, Christine sought $165,000 per month in child support and pushed back against the couple’s prenuptial agreement, which would have given her a $1.5 million payout with no alimony. Ultimately, the judge reduced her child support to $63,000 a month, and the divorce was settled.
As for Kevin Costner, he was asked about his ex-wife’s rumored romance with their former neighbor at LAX after receiving a Lifetime Achievement award.
His only response was, “I don’t have a next-door neighbor,” choosing not to comment further.
But Costner isn’t wallowing in heartbreak. He’s moved on as well, reportedly dating singer-songwriter Jewel. Their relationship blossomed after meeting at a charity event on Richard Branson’s private Caribbean island in November 2023. Friends say the two hit it off immediately, and photos of them cuddling soon surfaced online.
Both are taking things slow, but a source claims Kevin is “completely smitten,” and Jewel has “practically moved in” to his California mansion. Their shared love of music and the outdoors has brought them closer, and there’s even talk of a possible engagement.
However, Jewel is cautious about uprooting her life or moving to California, especially with her 12-year-old son. She’s reportedly taking things slow, which is a new experience for Costner, who’s used to being in control.
Despite this, the couple continues to enjoy their time together, and fans are supportive of Jewel’s decision to prioritize her own life and her son.
As for Christine, sources say she finds humor in Kevin’s new relationship, proving that both have moved on in their own ways after a very public and tumultuous divorce.
