Kevin Costner has confirmed he definitely won't be returning to Yellowstone.
The John Dutton actor was reported last year to be exiting the series, with the show subsequently announcing that it would be ending with a fifth and final season.
In the months since, Costner has talked about the behind-the-scenes drama around his departure, notably around the production of his movie series Horizon: An American Saga.
Related: Yellowstone couple Ryan Bingham and Hassie Harrison wed in cowboy ceremony
However, in a new Instagram post, the actor has now firmly shut the door on any possible future appearances in the series.
"Hi everyone," he began. "I just wanna reach out and let you know that after this long year and a half of working on Horizon, doing all of the things that's required, and thinking about Yellowstone – that beloved series that I love, that I know you love – I just realised that I'm not going to be able to continue season 5B or into the future.
"It was something that really changed me," Costner continued. "I loved it, and I know you loved it. And I just wanted to let you know that I won't be returning. And I love the relationship that we've been able to develop, and I'll see you at the movies."
Related: Yellowstone's Kevin Costner defends giving his son his acting debut in new movie
The star captioned his post: "An update for you guys. I'll see you at the movies."
Last month, Costner addressed his exit as he claimed the "real truth" behind the drama, alleging that the show "kept moving their gaps" for contracts.
He further alleged that he made a contract for seasons five, six and seven, while a further contract was made in February following negotiations.
"They wanted to redo that one, and instead of seasons six and seven, it was 5A and 5B, and maybe we'll do six. They weren't able to make those," he added to Deadline.
Related: Yellowstone's Kelly Reilly shares ending hopes for Beth Dutton
"Horizon was set in the middle, but Yellowstone was first position. I fit [Horizon] into the gaps. They just kept moving their gaps."
He further said he had "taken a beating from those f**king guys", adding: "I just elected not to get into that.
"But if you know me well enough, I made Yellowstone the first priority, and to insinuate anything else would be wrong. I did not initiate any of those things. They did."
Paramount+ has not commented directly on Costner's allegations about the contract negotiations and renegotiations.
Yellowstone season 5, part 2, will air on the Paramount Network from November 10, and comes to streaming on Paramount+ from November 11 in the UK.
July 2024 gift ideas and deals
Watch Power Book II: Ghost season 4 in the UK
Marquee TV streaming service - Save 50% with offer code
Digital Spy Holidays - trips with TV experts
Buy Zendaya's 'I Told Ya' Challengers t-shirt
Buy Cat Deeley's This Morning outfits
Shop Sky TV, broadband and mobile
Sam is a freelance reporter and sub-editor who has a particular interest in movies, TV and music. After completing a journalism Masters at City University, London, Sam joined Digital Spy as a reporter, and has also freelanced for publications such as NME and Screen International. Sam, who also has a degree in Film, can wax lyrical about everything from Lord of the Rings to Love Is Blind, and is equally in his element crossing every 't' and dotting every 'i' as a sub-editor.
