Christine Baumgartner, the former wife of Hollywood actor Kevin Costner, has officially tied the knot with financier Josh Connor, who was once the Costner family’s neighbor and close friend. The wedding took place on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at the Santa Ynez Ranch in Santa Barbara, California.
The 51-year-old former model walked down the aisle in a custom strapless gown by Mira Zwillinger, designed with a sweetheart neckline and delicate floral embroidery. For the evening reception, she changed into a sleek satin corset dress with a thigh-high slit, embodying timeless elegance. Guests described the ceremony as “intimate, heartfelt, and truly magical,” with over 100 attendees, including her three children, Cayden, Grace, and Hayes.
Christine Baumgartner’s New Chapter
Baumgartner and Connor’s romance became public in early 2024, shortly after her divorce from Costner was finalized in February of that year. Although rumors linked them as early as July 2023, the couple confirmed their relationship the following January. Their engagement was a brief one, as Connor proposed on a Santa Barbara beach earlier this year.
The wedding marks a significant turning point for Baumgartner, who weathered a highly publicized and challenging divorce from Costner after nearly two decades of marriage. Guests at the event highlighted the authenticity of the ceremony, noting that it was far from a Hollywood production, but instead a warm gathering filled with close family and friends.
Key Details from the Wedding
- Venue: Santa Ynez Ranch, Santa Barbara, California
- Bride’s Look: Custom Mira Zwillinger floral gown; satin corset dress with thigh-high slit for the reception
- Groom’s Look: Classic black-and-white tuxedo
- Guest Count: Over 100 attendees, including Christine’s three children
- Atmosphere: Intimate, emotional, and family-centered
- Proposal: Took place at a Santa Barbara beach in early 2025
The Kevin Costner Connection
What makes this union even more notable is the personal history involved. Josh Connor was not only a neighbor but also a friend of Kevin Costner. When Christine and Josh’s relationship came to light, Costner was said to have felt betrayed by both his ex-wife and his former friend.
Despite the emotional fallout, Costner himself is moving forward. Reports suggest he is now romantically linked to writer Kelly Noonan Gores, who recently separated from billionaire husband Alec Gores. Sources close to the actor confirm that he is beginning to let go of the past and focus on new beginnings.
Table: Timeline of Christine Baumgartner’s Relationship with Josh Connor
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| May 2023 | Christine files for divorce from Kevin Costner |
| July 2023 | Christine and Josh spotted together in Hawaii |
| January 2024 | Relationship publicly confirmed |
| February 2024 | Divorce from Kevin Costner finalized |
| Early 2025 | Josh Connor proposes on a Santa Barbara beach |
| October 18, 2025 | Christine and Josh marry at Santa Ynez Ranch, Santa Barbara |
Reactions and Public Interest
The wedding has sparked widespread media coverage, not only because of Christine’s celebrity status but also due to the complex personal ties between the newlyweds and Costner. Hollywood insiders say the event reflects a growing trend of celebrities opting for smaller, more meaningful weddings rather than lavish productions.
A guest told People magazine that what made the day remarkable was its authenticity. “The setting was gorgeous, but what made it special was the intimacy of it all. Everyone there felt like they were witnessing something really precious.”
As for Costner, his fans have been quick to note his resilience through a tough year. His children reportedly helped him stay grounded during the difficult divorce proceedings. Observers suggest that his budding relationship with Kelly Noonan Gores may signal his readiness to move on both personally and emotionally.
The Road Ahead
For Baumgartner and Connor, their marriage marks the start of a new chapter that blends family life with professional stability. As a financier, Connor brings a private lifestyle that contrasts with the spotlight Christine experienced during her years with Costner. Their choice of an intimate wedding suggests a shared commitment to privacy and authenticity moving forward.
The couple is expected to split their time between Santa Barbara and Aspen, where they both have ties through mutual friends and frequent visits. Insiders confirm they enjoy a quieter lifestyle, away from Hollywood’s pressures, which may allow their relationship to strengthen further.
Trending FAQ
1. When did Christine Baumgartner and Kevin Costner finalize their divorce?
They finalized their divorce in February 2024 after Christine filed in May 2023.
2. Who is Christine Baumgartner’s new husband?
Her new husband is financier Josh Connor, a former neighbor and friend of Kevin Costner.
3. Where was the wedding held?
The ceremony took place at the Santa Ynez Ranch in Santa Barbara, California.
4. How did Kevin Costner react to the marriage?
Initially, reports indicated feelings of betrayal, but Costner has since moved on and is linked to writer Kelly Noonan Gores.
5. What did Christine wear to her wedding?
She wore a custom Mira Zwillinger gown with floral embroidery and later changed into a satin corset dress with a thigh-high slit.
6. How many guests attended the ceremony?
Over 100 guests, including her three children, attended the intimate celebration.
7. Did Christine and Josh have a long engagement?
No, their engagement was brief. Connor proposed in early 2025, and they married in October of the same year.
8. Will Christine and Josh remain in California?
Yes, but they also plan to spend time in Aspen, where they both have strong connections and mutual friends.
9. How has public reaction been to the marriage?
The public response has been a mix of fascination and support, with emphasis on the personal ties between Connor, Christine, and Costner.
10. Is Kevin Costner dating someone new?
Yes, Costner is reportedly dating Kelly Noonan Gores, a writer who recently separated from her billionaire husband Alec Gores.
