Few actors have defined modern television quite like Kevin Costner in Yellowstone. As the rugged patriarch John Dutton, Costner not only helped turn the Western drama into one of TV’s biggest hits but also secured one of the highest paychecks on TV.
The Oscar-winning actor reportedly earned over $1 million per episode upon his exit from the Western drama. However, the show is only part of Costner’s impressive financial story. With decades of blockbuster films, directing credits, and savvy business ventures, his net worth paints a picture of a true Hollywood heavyweight.
Here’s a closer look at Kevin Costner’s salary on Yellowstone and how it contributed to his growing fortune and legacy.
How Much Kevin Costner Made Per Episode on Yellowstone?
When Kevin Costner joined Taylor Sheridan’s Yellowstone in 2018 as John Dutton, he instantly became the show’s highest-paid actor, earning $500,000 per episode, according to Puck (via Parade).
The neo-noir Western quickly became a cultural phenomenon, and with its skyrocketing popularity came a substantial boost to Costner’s paycheck. By the time he exited the series in Season 5, Costner was reportedly pulling in $1.3 million per episode, cementing his status as one of the highest-paid TV stars, as per Taste of Country.
After four powerhouse seasons, Costner opted not to return for Season 5. His departure was sealed dramatically, as John Dutton was killed off in the Season 5 premiere, ending an era and leaving behind a legacy both on-screen and in television pay history.
Kevin Costner’s Net Worth: The Yellowstone Star’s Massive Fortune Revealed
With a decades-long career spanning blockbuster films and acclaimed television, Kevin Costner has built an impressive financial legacy. The actor has amassed a net worth of around $200 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. However, Costner’s income streams extend far beyond acting.
The star has diversified through several business ventures, including Autio, an audio entertainment app offering immersive storytelling for travelers. He also owns roughly $100 million in real estate in Carpinteria, California, showcasing his savvy investments.
However, Costner’s net worth has seen a decline from an estimated $250 million in 2024 (Cosmopolitan). This drop is believed to be due to a combination of personal and financial setbacks, including a high-profile divorce from Christine Baumgartner and the underwhelming Horizon: An American Saga.
Following Baumgartner’s 2023 divorce filing, Costner agreed to pay $63,209 per month in child support. He also invested $38 million of his own money into Horizon, a passion project that, despite its struggles, remains close to his heart.
Costner has expressed optimism, saying, as per Variety, “I’ve had a lot of movies that way, that have stood the test of time,” and he has voiced his desire to continue working on the third installment.
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