Christine Baumgartner has accepted a marriage proposal from Josh Connor, formerly a close acquaintance of her ex-husband, Kevin Costner.
The engagement between Baumgartner and Connor adds a new chapter to what has been a dramatic series of events since her split from the actor, New York Post reported.
Christine Baumgartner, previously married to Hollywood star Kevin Costner, officially filed for divorce in May 2023 following their separation a month earlier. The couple shared a lengthy marriage during which they welcomed three children: Cayden, 17, Hayes, 15, and Grace, 14.
Amidst these significant life changes, Josh Connor entered Baumgartner's life. Connor was not only a former neighbor but also intertwined in the previous social circles that included both Baumgartner and Costner. His proximity during their marital challenges signified a complex intertwining of personal associations.
The romantic sparks between Baumgartner and Connor seemed to have been ignited around July 2023. During this time, Baumgartner's legal representative downplayed their relationship, claiming they were merely friends. However, their relationship was hinted at during a trip to Hawaii with Baumgartner’s children.
Josh Connor chose a picturesque yet nearly deserted beach as the setting for his proposal, due to impending rain. This intimate backdrop played a significant role as Connor knelt to propose. A source close to the couple shared, “It was about to rain, so almost no one else was on the beach when Josh got down on one knee.”
The couple, now engaged, was seen publicly embracing their union by December when they were spotted arriving at Il Totano, a cozy restaurant in New York's West Village. This public appearance confirmed the evolving nature of their relationship which had matured from mere friendship to something much more significant.
Their relationship, rooted deeply in initial friendship, grew over time and was strengthened by shared personal values. An insider commented on the strength of their bond, “Christine and Josh’s relationship started as a friendship, so they have a really strong foundation. They share the same values, and she feels so happy and supported in this new relationship. They’re so in love. It’s been a very natural and positive step forward for Christine.”
Post-divorce, Baumgartner faced not only personal but also financial readjustments. After the divorce was finalized, Kevin Costner was ordered to pay $63,209 per month in child support. This settlement marked the end of their marital legal ties and set the stage for new beginnings for Baumgartner.
Meanwhile, Costner's professional life continues, although shadowed by the personal upheavals that likely resonate due to his public profile. The engagement news signals a move forward for both Baumgartner and Connor, leaving the past complexities behind.
With their relationship becoming public, Baumgartner and Connor spent their first Christmas together as a couple in New York, where their relationship had blossomed. Reflecting on their festive season together, another insider remarked, “They spent Christmas in New York together last month, where it all began. They are both over the moon and excited for their future together.”
The engagement and the unfolding of Baumgartner and Connor's love story have captured the attention of both fans and media alike. Their connection, stemming from a foundation of friendship and mutual respect, highlights a story of finding love in unexpected places.
This journey of finding happiness after tumult is not just a personal triumph for Baumgartner but also presents a narrative of resilience and new possibilities. It reminds us that personal lives, especially those lived so publicly, can pivot towards hope and renewal, despite past adversities.
As Baumgartner and Connor prepare for their wedding, their story encapsulates the unpredictable nature of relationships and the beautiful outcomes that can arise from shared experiences and values. This engagement not only marks a new beginning for the couple but also signifies a closure on past chapters.
