Kevin Costner And Christine Baumgartner: A Love Story That Surprised Everyone

When Kevin Costner met his second wife, Christine Baumgartner, over two decades ago, he never imagined the incredible love story they would share. Nowadays, you can find the longtime lovebirds smiling for photos on the red carpet and spending time with their beautiful family. Their journey is filled with ups and downs, showcasing the power of love and commitment.

The Yellowstone star and the professional model first crossed paths in the ’80s. However, it was nothing more than a simple introduction as Kevin was married to his first wife, Cindy Costner, at the time. The pair tied the knot in 1978, embarking on a life together that would last for 16 years.

Following 16 years of marriage, the duo — who share kids Annie Costner, Lily Costner, and Joe Costner — announced they were going their separate ways in 1994. Two years after their divorce, the Academy Award winner welcomed his fourth child, Liam Costner, with his then-girlfriend Bridget Rooney in 1996. This marked a new chapter in his life as a single father.

Kevin was enjoying his life as a Hollywood bachelor when he bumped into Christine again while out at a restaurant in 1999. The two, who were previously just acquaintances, completely hit it off and became a couple in no time. The professional model often accompanied her beau at red carpet events, showcasing their blossoming relationship.

Although the spark between Kevin and Christine was undeniable, he had reservations about walking down the aisle. While exclusively chatting with Closer in June 2018, the Dances With Wolves actor explained why he thought he “never wanted to go through” with marriage for a second time. “When I met Christine, I wasn’t prepared to be in love again,” he candidly revealed. “It took me a long time before I said ‘I love you’ to her.”

Kevin said he got cold feet when Christine revealed she wanted to have children. “Fear kept me from marrying Christine,” he continued, noting he was content being the dad of his three older kids. “[She] wanted a child, but I was afraid I couldn’t be an effective father.” This conflict between desire and fear created a tension that could have easily torn them apart.

The Golden Globe recipient and Christine briefly split in 2003, but Kevin knew he couldn’t let Christine go after dating for four years. “I woke up and thought, ‘Am I going to lose a beautiful woman who is willing to be with me to my very last breath because I am afraid to say yes to a child?’” he told Closer. “That’s all it took. Sometimes you learn the thing you’re most afraid of will save your life.” This realization marked a pivotal moment in their relationship.

After getting back together following their short time apart, Kevin and Christine got married in 2004. Three years into their marriage, the happy couple’s first child, Cayden, was born in May 2007. They expanded their family with the birth of son Hayes in February 2009, followed by daughter Grace in June 2010. Their family life has been filled with joy and laughter.

Since walking down the aisle, Kevin is over the moon about his wife and kids. “You get to play heroes in the movies, but there’s a moment in time where you’re just a father and you get to go home,” he gushed to Closer. “I have played two roles in my life, one I get paid to do, which is the movies, and the other one is being a father, for which I’ll be rewarded my whole life.” His words reflect the profound love and appreciation he has for his family.

Scroll through the gallery below to see Kevin and Christine’s cutest photos through the years!