**Luke Grimes opens up about Kevin Costner’s exit in ‘Yellowstone’ season, calling it the ‘smoothest filming’ season**
“Yellowstone” star Luke Grimes recently sat down with Esquire to discuss the final episodes of the hit Western series and the absence of co-star Kevin Costner. Grimes, who portrays Kayce Dutton on the show, shared his thoughts on filming without Costner, calling it a refreshing change.
**A Season of Transition**
Grimes mentioned that while he wasn’t blaming anyone, filming the last episodes of season five without Costner brought a sense of ease to the set. He acknowledged that some of the conflict was diminished with Costner’s absence, making it the “easiest season” they had filmed. Despite the challenges, Grimes emphasized that the experience was still rewarding.
The series finale of “Yellowstone” is set to air on Dec. 15, marking the end of a seven-year run. Grimes expressed that he felt the timing was right for the show to conclude after such a significant period on-air. He noted that playing the character of Kayce Dutton for an extended period was a unique experience for him, given that he had never portrayed a character for such a long duration before.
**Looking Ahead**
As discussions of potential spin-offs circulate, Grimes shared his perspective on Kayce’s future. He highlighted the character’s desire for a peaceful life with his family, away from the turmoil of the ranching world. Grimes pondered the feasibility of a spin-off once the main storyline concludes, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the essence of the character’s journey.
**A Personal Connection**
In a candid moment, Grimes revealed that he struggled to detach himself from the show while still actively involved in filming. He mentioned that it was challenging to fully appreciate “Yellowstone” as a viewer when he was so immersed in the production. Grimes expressed his desire to revisit the series in the future with a fresh perspective, allowing himself time to disconnect before diving back into the world of the Dutton family.
As the final episode approaches, fans can expect a poignant conclusion to the beloved series. Grimes’ insights offer a glimpse into the emotional journey of wrapping up a long-running show and the impact of key cast changes on the filming process. Stay tuned for the finale on Paramount+ on Dec. 15 to witness the culmination of the Dutton saga.
