Paramount Network’s "Yellowstone" took years to achieve the kind of widespread pop culture acclaim that matched up with its monster ratings, chart-topping DVD sales, and mass appeal throughout the U.S.. But it only took a few months for all that success and goodwill to implode over alleged behind-the-scenes conflicts tied to Kevin Costner’s scheduling and eagerness to work on other projects like his upcoming pair of "Horizon" western features. While nothing official has been announced by the network or creator Taylor Sheridan, it’s now being reported that Costner is indeed destined to exit the role of John Dutton after Season 5, though it’s still unclear when (or if) we’ll actually see the remaining episodes.

Kevin Costner potentially vacating his beloved role as the Dutton family patriarch was already a big part of fan discussions after the initial rumors broke, and they only grew stronger once it was confirmed that Paramount is developing a spinoff to be fronted by Matthew McConaughey. Now, E! News is citing sources close to production in reporting that the Oscar-winning filmmaker will not be returning to the "Yellowstone"-verse beyond Season 5. And it’s hard to imagine the western drama will continue without its key star, though there are 100% ways for Taylor Sheridan to go that route creatively, given how stacked, talented, and equally beloved the show’s other lead cast members are.