Kevin Costner’s Ex-Wife Christine Baumgartner Stuns in Secret Santa Barbara Wedding to His Former Friend and Financier Josh Connor — Just Two Years After Their Bitter Divorce
In a development that has surprised fans and stirred Hollywood whispers, Christine Baumgartner — the ex-wife of actor Kevin Costner — has officially tied the knot with financier Josh Connor, a man once closely associated with Costner himself. The intimate ceremony took place over the weekend at a picturesque vineyard estate near Santa Barbara, marking a romantic new chapter for the former model and handbag designer just two years after her highly publicized and contentious divorce from the Yellowstone star.
The wedding, which sources described as “magical” and “emotional,” was attended by close friends and family. According to People magazine, guests were moved to tears as Christine walked down the aisle in an elegant gown, with the sun setting behind the rolling hills of California wine country. “There wasn’t a dry eye,” an insider said. “It was deeply personal, romantic, and reflective of Christine’s fresh start in life.”
What has made this union particularly headline-worthy is the identity of the groom. Josh Connor, a financier and businessman, was once a close friend of Kevin Costner. His name surfaced in media speculation during Costner and Baumgartner’s divorce, though both parties denied any inappropriate involvement at the time. Still, the speed of this new romance and the couple’s close ties to Costner’s former social circle have fueled widespread intrigue.
Christine, 50, and Josh, reportedly began dating in the aftermath of her 2023 split from Costner, which played out in tabloid headlines for months due to disputes over finances, child custody, and living arrangements. The divorce left both parties bruised but determined to move on. While Kevin Costner has remained relatively quiet on his personal life since, Christine appears to have embraced a fresh start — and a new love.
Though the ceremony was private, photos show a glowing Christine surrounded by her children, who played a role in the wedding. “She wanted them to be part of the day,” said one source. “It’s important for her to show them that love can come again, even after hardship.”
The relationship between Costner and Connor remains unclear. Neither has spoken publicly about the wedding, and it’s unknown whether Costner was informed in advance. However, insiders suggest the actor has shifted his focus to his professional life, particularly his Horizon film project, and is unlikely to weigh in on his ex-wife’s new relationship.
Still, the public reaction has been swift, with fans divided over the couple’s romance. Some view it as a bold move by Christine to reclaim her happiness, while others question the timing and connection to Costner’s past.
Regardless of public opinion, one thing is clear: Christine Baumgartner is turning the page on her past and embracing a new future — one filled with love, resilience, and perhaps a little bit of Hollywood drama.
