Kevin Costner’s Yellowstone Contract Has A Unique Stipulation For John Dutton

In the world of Hollywood contracts, actors often negotiate unique clauses to protect their interests and image. However, Kevin Costner’s reported “moral death” clause for his character John Dutton in the hit series “Yellowstone” takes these stipulations to a new level, showcasing the star’s commitment to maintaining his character’s integrity even in potential death scenes.

The ‘Moral Death’ Clause: A Hollywood Rarity

According to a 2023 report from Puck News, Costner’s contract for “Yellowstone” includes a provision that prohibits certain types of on-screen deaths for his character, John Dutton. This “moral death” clause specifically bars any demise that would “cause shame or embarrassment” to the character, and by extension, to Costner and his family.

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This unusual stipulation stands out even in an industry known for its eccentric contract demands. While “no lose” clauses for action stars and specific character protection clauses are not unheard of, talent lawyers contacted by Puck News claimed to have never encountered a “moral death” clause before.

Yellowstone’s Uncertain Future and Kevin Costner’s Exit

The revelation of this unique contract detail comes amidst ongoing controversy surrounding “Yellowstone” and Costner’s departure from the series. The show’s fifth season, which began airing in November 2022, faced delays due to the 2023 Hollywood strikes and Costner’s exit.

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The reasons behind Costner’s departure remain contentious, with the actor citing his desire to focus on his “Horizon” film project, while series creator Taylor Sheridan pointed to scheduling conflicts. This disagreement has led to speculation about how John Dutton’s character will be written out of the show.

Implications for John Dutton’s Fate

With Costner’s exit confirmed, fans and industry insiders alike are curious about how the show will handle John Dutton’s departure. The “moral death” clause adds an intriguing layer to this dilemma, potentially limiting the creative options available to the show’s writers.

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If the reports are accurate, any potential death scene for John Dutton must be handled with the utmost care and respect, ensuring it doesn’t violate the terms of Costner’s contract. This restriction could lead to a more dignified send-off for the character, aligning with the strong, principled image Dutton has maintained throughout the series.

The Future of ‘Yellowstone’ and Its Spin-offs

As “Yellowstone” grapples with the challenge of continuing without its lead actor, Paramount is moving forward with several spin-off projects. These include “The Madison,” starring Kurt Russell and Michelle Pfeiffer, set to debut after the conclusion of “Yellowstone” season 5B in November 2024.

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The uncertainty surrounding John Dutton’s fate and the show’s future has led to intense speculation and efforts to prevent plot leaks. Even the cast members are reportedly in the dark about how the season will conclude, adding to the anticipation and intrigue surrounding the show’s return.

Conclusion: A New Precedent in Hollywood Contracts?

Kevin Costner’s “moral death” clause in his “Yellowstone” contract represents a fascinating development in the world of Hollywood negotiations. While it’s unclear whether this type of stipulation will become more common, it certainly highlights the increasing power and influence that high-profile actors can wield in shaping their on-screen personas.

As fans eagerly await the return of “Yellowstone” and the resolution of John Dutton’s story, this unique contract detail adds another layer of intrigue to an already compelling drama both on and off the screen. Whether Sheridan and his team will abide by the spirit of this clause or find a creative workaround remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the legacy of John Dutton and Kevin Costner’s portrayal will continue to captivate audiences long after the character’s final scene.