Sometimes, life has a funny way of bringing new beginnings when you least expect them.
For Christine Baumgartner, that new beginning came wrapped in joy, love, and the promise of a peaceful future.
Less than two years after her headline-making split from Hollywood legend Kevin Costner, Christine has tied the knot with none other than Costner’s former friend, Josh Connor.
A Romantic Ceremony in Santa Barbara
Christine and Josh exchanged vows at the breathtaking Santa Ynez Ranch in Santa Barbara, California.
The intimate ceremony gathered around 100 close friends and family members who described the day as nothing short of magical.
One guest told People that the event wasn’t about glamour or grandeur — it was about authenticity.
“It felt real and heartfelt, like we were witnessing something truly precious,” the guest shared.
Another attendee described the atmosphere as pure joy from start to finish, adding that “Christine and Josh were glowing all weekend.”
From the laughter at the Friday night welcome dinner to the tears during the Saturday vows, the entire celebration felt like a reflection of who they truly are as a couple.
Elegant Dresses and Emotional Vows
Christine looked radiant in a custom Mira Zwillinger gown as she exchanged vows with Josh.
Later in the evening, she slipped into a sleek white satin strapless dress by Lihi Hod for the reception.
The moment was every bit as elegant as it was emotional, with the newlyweds focusing on what matters most — building an authentic, joy-filled life together.
From Divorce to a Fresh Start
The road to this new chapter wasn’t an easy one.
Christine and Kevin Costner ended their 19-year marriage in May 2023 after raising three children together — Cayden, 17, Hayes, 15, and Grace, 14.
Their divorce was one of Hollywood’s most talked-about, filled with legal battles over finances and child support.
Christine had initially requested $165,000 per month in child support, but a judge later ruled that she would receive $63,209 monthly instead.
She also received a $1.5 million lump sum and a year’s worth of mortgage payments on a new home, as specified in their prenuptial agreement.
Despite attempts to challenge the prenup, the court upheld its terms, requiring her to vacate Costner’s $145 million Carpinteria estate.
Romance Blossoms with a Familiar Face
It wasn’t long after the separation that Christine found comfort in a familiar presence.
Josh Connor, a handsome financier and former neighbor to the Costners, had also gone through a divorce and was raising three children of his own.
The two were first spotted together in Hawaii in July 2023, sparking speculation that soon turned into confirmation of a budding romance by early 2024.
According to sources, their connection grew naturally out of friendship.
“Josh was Christine’s rock during the toughest parts of her divorce,” a friend shared.
By December 2024, the pair were described as being “so in love” and ready to build a stable, meaningful future together.
The Beach Proposal and Happy Engagement
When Josh decided to propose, he chose a quiet and personal setting — a nearly empty beach in Santa Barbara just before the rain.
“Almost no one else was there when Josh got down on one knee,” a source recalled.
The proposal took place on January 26, 2025, following a cozy Christmas they’d spent together.
Those close to the couple said they weren’t surprised — it was clear to everyone how deeply in love the two had become.
Kevin Costner Finds His Own Way Forward
Meanwhile, Kevin Costner has also been navigating his own path after the divorce.
The Yellowstone star, who was later linked to singer Jewel (a rumor both denied), admitted that the split was one of the hardest experiences of his life.
Speaking to Gayle King on CBS Mornings in 2024, he described the moment as “powerful” and “hurtful,” but emphasized that his seven children have kept him strong.
“I can’t wilt like a daisy,” he said.
“My kids are looking at me, and I have to move forward.”
A Peaceful Future Ahead
As for Christine and Josh, friends say their focus is on creating a calm, genuine life together — far from the glitz and drama of Hollywood headlines.
They’re embracing their new beginning with gratitude and a shared vision of peace, family, and love.
“Christine is beyond happy,” a close friend revealed.
“She spent too long in a marriage that no longer served her, and now she’s with someone who truly shares her values.”
After the whirlwind of legal battles and heartbreak, Christine Baumgartner’s story has come full circle — proof that sometimes, the most beautiful endings come after the storm has passed.