Kevin Costner is set to host a highly anticipated two-hour Christmas special on ABC, drawing attention from fans eager for his return to television. The Kevin Costner Christmas special will air on December 9 at 8 PM EST, offering viewers Costner’s first TV appearance since his exit from Yellowstone.
After leaving Yellowstone earlier than expected amid controversy and fan disappointment, Costner has remained active, though largely focused on film projects. His hosting of this new Christmas special marks a notable moment for both the actor and his supporters, as well as for ABC’s holiday programming this year.
Kevin Costner Steps Back into the Spotlight with Holiday Television Event
This December, Kevin Costner returns to television to host Kevin Costner Presents: The First Christmas on ABC. This marks his first TV appearance since departing Yellowstone, where he portrayed the steadfast John Dutton. The special promises to recount the story of Mary, Joseph, and the birth of Jesus, with Costner serving as both the narrator and guide throughout the program.
Reflecting on the upcoming broadcast, Costner shared his thoughts, stating,
“It’s a story I think we all think we know. I think maybe some of us know a lot, maybe you know just a little, maybe you’re a believer, maybe you’re a cynic or maybe — hopefully — you’re just curious to find out the real story that’s behind the tradition.”
– Kevin Costner, Host & Actor
The event is part of ABC’s wider holiday lineup, which began during Thanksgiving weekend and includes a host of festive specials throughout December. In addition to Costner’s show, viewers can look forward to programming such as The Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade and holiday-themed episodes from popular ABC series like Shifting Gears and Abbott Elementary. Seasonal favorites including The Sound of Music and Home Alone will also be featured on the network.
Focusing on Film After Yellowstone
Costner’s departure from Yellowstone, a defining role in his career, was primarily so he could concentrate on his ambitious film project, Horizon: An American Saga. The scope of this saga is expansive, envisioned as a four-part film franchise detailing the development of the American West before and after the Civil War. Costner not only stars in these films, but also directs them, continuing his legacy as an actor-filmmaker committed to stories of the western frontier.
The first chapter of Horizon: An American Saga had its initial premiere at the 77th Cannes Film Festival before being widely released on June 28, 2024. However, the film faced challenges upon release, with a modest worldwide box office total of $38,835,702 and a lukewarm 51% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Although the franchise’s second installment debuted at the 81st Venice International Film Festival, its general release has been postponed due to the underperformance of the first film.
Production on a third chapter began in May 2024 but experienced delays attributed to funding shortages. Still, according to actor Danny Huston, a member of the cast, significant portions of this installment have already been shot, suggesting that Costner is determined to see the entire saga through.
“…there’s no stopping him. He’s just unbelievable, and this dream of his is coming to life in a spectacular way. It’s just extraordinary what he does.”
– Danny Huston, Actor
The future of Costner’s ambitious Western film project remains uncertain, particularly with the mounting financial obstacles, but Costner’s persistence is evident. The widespread support from both colleagues such as Huston and his fanbase underscores the intense dedication Costner maintains for completing the series.
Costner’s Special Ushers in the Holiday Season
Regardless of the outcome of his film franchise, Kevin Costner’s presence returns to network television this December, much to the delight of longtime followers. As the host of Kevin Costner Presents: The First Christmas, Costner brings the traditional story of Mary, Joseph, and the birth of Jesus to a prime-time audience, blending his storytelling talent with the festive spirit of the season.
This Christmas special not only fulfills the wishes of Costner’s fans to see him on screen again but also enriches ABC’s holiday lineup, which celebrates cherished traditions and new programming alike. Looking ahead, Costner’s unmistakable passion ensures that he remains an influential figure in both television and film, regardless of career twists or production hurdles.
