Kevin Costner’s Post-Divorce Dating Rumors: Who He’s Linked To and What Insiders Say
After a difficult and widely public divorce, Kevin Costner is now being linked to a new relationship, with reports claiming the Hollywood star has started dating again and is in a better place emotionally.
Costner’s split from Christine Baumgartner, a handbag designer he married in 2004, became one of the most talked-about celebrity breakups in recent years, involving legal disputes, custody arrangements, and public scrutiny. Now, multiple entertainment outlets claim Costner is spending time with Kelly Noonan Gores, a filmmaker and the ex-wife of billionaire Alec Gores.
A Marriage Once Praised Publicly
Only months before the divorce filing, Costner spoke warmly about his home life and the impact his wife had on their family environment.
He described how Baumgartner brought comfort and warmth into their everyday lives, crediting her with making their home feel more welcoming and “prettier,” and emphasizing what he viewed as the “power of love.”
Divorce Filing and a High-Profile Legal Battle
In May 2023, Baumgartner filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences. What followed was a tense legal process that played out publicly, particularly around financial support and custody.
Key reported outcomes included:
- The legal battle concluded in February 2024.
- Costner was ordered to pay $63,209 per month in child support.
- The amount represented a reduction from the $248,000 per month Baumgartner had reportedly requested.
- The former couple reportedly agreed to joint legal and physical custody of their three children:
- Cayden (18)
- Hayes (16)
- Grace (15)
Costner on the Emotional Impact
Costner has acknowledged that the breakup was deeply painful.
He described the divorce as “crushing” and said it hurt, while also stressing that he felt compelled to keep moving forward for the sake of his children. He framed the moment as emotionally powerful, but insisted he could not fall apart because his children were watching how he handled adversity.
New Romance Rumors: Kelly Noonan Gores
Recent reports claim Costner has been dating Kelly Noonan Gores, described as a 46-year-old filmmaker who was previously married to billionaire Alec Gores (72).
According to multiple “insider” accounts, Costner has attempted to keep the relationship private. However, reports note that the pair were seen together at the JAS Labor Day Experience festival in Aspen, fueling speculation that the relationship could be progressing.
What sources claim about their connection:
- They were connected through friends.
- They both spend time in Aspen and share mutual social circles.
- The relationship is described by some as casual and not serious yet, though other accounts suggest it is moving quickly.
Why Insiders Say It Works
Sources describe Noonan Gores as fitting Costner’s lifestyle and personality preferences, especially after a stressful divorce.
Common interests reportedly include:
- The outdoors
- Sports
- Surfing
- Long walks with dogs
- A shared comfort around family life, with sources noting she has young children and Costner is described as someone who loves kids
One insider characterized Costner as “happy again” after what was described as a very dark time, and said he views her as “chill” and stabilizing.
Kevin Costner Is Dating Kelly Noonan 8 Months After Ex-Wife Christine Baumgartner’s Engagement https://t.co/6IQWj8B5PW
— E! News (@enews) August 30, 2025
Conflicting Narratives: “Hot and Heavy” vs. “Casual”
The reporting around the relationship is mixed:
- One set of sources claims the romance is intense and fast-moving, using phrases like “hot and heavy”, and suggesting Costner wants to spend as much time with her as possible.
- Another account describes the relationship as casual, emphasizing that they are still getting to know each other and are not yet at a serious commitment stage.
Baumgartner’s Reported New Engagement
Reports also claim Baumgartner has moved forward in her personal life. She is reportedly engaged to financier Josh Conner, who proposed during a romantic beach dinner in Santa Barbara, California.
What’s Clear So Far
Based on what is being reported, these are the central takeaways:
- Kevin Costner’s divorce finalized key terms by February 2024, including child support at $63,209 per month and joint custody of their three children.
- Costner has publicly signaled the split was emotionally painful, but said he must move forward for his kids.
- He is now being linked to Kelly Noonan Gores, with differing reports describing the relationship as either casual or quickly intensifying.
- Christine Baumgartner is also reported to be engaged, signaling both have begun new chapters after the breakup.