Kevin Costner Says He’s Open to Falling in Love Again: ‘Not Going to Let Anything Harden My Heart’

In a candid new interview with PEOPLE, Hollywood icon Kevin Costner reveals that despite the emotional toll of his recent divorce, he remains open to the possibility of love.

The Oscar-winning actor and director, known for his roles in classics like “Dances with Wolves” and “Field of Dreams,” recently opened up about his life after his split from Christine Baumgartner.

Costner, now 69, emphasizes the importance of keeping an open heart and mind as he navigates this new chapter in his life.

“Not going to let anything harden my heart,” he asserts, showcasing a resilience that has defined his approach to both love and life.

A Year of Transition

Costner’s divorce from Baumgartner, who is 50, was finalized in May 2023, marking a significant transition in his life.

The couple shares three children — Cayden, 17, Hayes, 15, and Grace, 14 — and Costner describes the past year as a period of adjustment, not just for himself, but for his entire family.

“You just do it,” he tells PEOPLE.

“You just keep talking, you keep coaching [the kids], you keep interested in what they’re interested in … I had to.”

His commitment to his children has been a guiding force during this challenging time, helping him maintain a sense of purpose and connection.

Love Is Still Possible

Despite the heartache of divorce, Costner remains optimistic about love.

When asked if he could see himself falling in love again, he responds with a thoughtful, “Yeah, I think everybody would like to be in love.”

He acknowledges the warmth and joy that love brings, even if it may need to be defined differently in the future.

“There’s such a good feeling that’s associated with that,” he adds, hinting at a hopeful outlook on romance.

Costner’s reflections on love are not just about finding a partner; they also touch on the broader themes of connection and emotional openness.

“I love the idea of that possibility,” he states, suggesting that while he may be cautious, he is not closed off to new relationships.

A Passion Project: Horizon

In addition to his personal life, Costner has channeled his energy into his latest film project, “Horizon: An American Saga.”

This ambitious Western epic, which he both directed and starred in, has been a labor of love for Costner.

He invested $38 million of his own money into the film, even mortgaging property to ensure its completion.

“It’s something I deeply believe in,” he says, reflecting on the significance of this project in his life.

Set to open in theaters on June 28, “Horizon” is a testament to Costner’s dedication to storytelling and his passion for cinema.

“I’ve had an incredibly unusual — and, for the most part, beautiful — life,” he shares, looking back on his nearly seven decades in the industry.

“I’ve taken some really big bites out of life, and life has taken some really big ones out of me, and I’ve never let it harden me and I’m not going to.”

Family Comes First

At the heart of Costner’s journey is his unwavering commitment to his children.

With seven kids in total, including four adult children — Annie, 40, Lily, 37, Joe, 36, and Liam, 27 — he emphasizes that family remains his top priority.

“It’s really about the children,” he says, underscoring the importance of being present in their lives.

Costner continues to teach and guide his kids, finding joy in their growth and learning experiences.

“And by the way, I’m still learning,” he adds, highlighting the reciprocal nature of parenting.

Looking Ahead

As Costner moves forward, he carries with him a sense of gratitude for the life he has lived.

His experiences, both joyous and challenging, have shaped him into the person he is today.

While the future may hold uncertainties, Costner’s resolve to embrace love and life with an open heart is a powerful reminder of the human spirit’s resilience.

“I’m not going to let anything harden my heart,” he reiterates, a mantra that resonates with anyone who has faced adversity.

For those interested in more insights from Kevin Costner, be sure to check out the latest issue of PEOPLE, available on newsstands this Friday.

In a world where love can sometimes feel elusive, Costner’s story serves as an inspiring example of hope, healing, and the enduring power of connection.