Kevin Costner’s ex-wife Christine Baumgartner has become engaged to financier Josh Connor, less than a year after finalising her divorce from the Yellowstone star.
Connor, 49, proposed to Baumgartner, 50, during an intimate dinner in Santa Barbara on January 26.
The couple’s engagement marks a new chapter for Baumgartner, who finalised her divorce from Costner in February 2024 after 18 years of marriage.
The romantic proposal took place on a nearly deserted beach as rain approached, creating a private setting for the former neighbours turned lovers.
“It was about to rain, so almost no one else was on the beach when Josh got down on one knee,” a source close to the couple told People magazine.
The engagement followed the couple’s Christmas celebrations in New York, which sources say held special significance for their relationship.
Kevin Costner and Christine Baumgartner finalised their divorce in February 2024
GETTY
“They spent Christmas in New York together last month, where it all began. They are both over the moon and excited for their future together,” the source added.
Those close to the pair were not surprised by the engagement, as their relationship had been steadily growing stronger.
Baumgartner and Connor’s relationship began as a friendship whilst they were neighbours during her marriage to Costner.
The pair were first spotted together in Hawaii in July 2023, just two months after Baumgartner filed for divorce from Costner.
Kevin Costner and Christine Baumgartner were married for 18 years before splitting
GETTY
During child support hearings in August 2023, Baumgartner’s lawyer insisted the pair were “nothing more than” friends.
Connor had previously lent Baumgartner £20,000 during what her attorney described as a time of “distress” following her separation.
Their friendship blossomed into romance, with the relationship officially confirmed in January 2024.
“Christine and Josh’s relationship started as a friendship, so they have a really strong foundation,” a source told People magazine last month.
Baumgartner and Costner finalised their divorce in February 2024 after a contentious legal battle.
The split began when Baumgartner filed for divorce in May 2023, citing irreconcilable differences after 18 years of marriage.
The former couple share three children: Cayden, 17, Hayes, 15, and Grace, 14.
Following lengthy negotiations, Costner was ordered to pay £49,800 in monthly child support, significantly less than the £196,000 Baumgartner had initially requested.
Costner, 70, described the divorce as “a crushing moment” in court proceedings, telling reporters: “This is a horrible place to be, but this is where we’re at.”
Sources indicate the couple are looking forward to their future together, with friends noting their strong compatibility.
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“They share the same values, and she feels so happy and supported in this new relationship,” an insider revealed to People magazine.
“They’re so in love. It’s been a very natural and positive step forward for Christine,” the source added.
Friends and family have reportedly been supportive of the relationship, with a source noting: “Everyone can tell how happy they are together.”
The couple’s inner circle is now eagerly anticipating wedding plans, though no date has been announced.