New York: Hollywood icon Kevin Costner and his ex-wife Christine Baumgartner reunited publicly for a major family milestone: their son Cayden’s high school graduation. But while the moment was celebratory for their 18-year-old, the estranged couple made it clear — there was no reunion beyond co-parenting duties.
The graduation ceremony, held on Friday, June 13, saw Kevin and Christine keeping a respectful distance as they watched Cayden accept his diploma from opposite ends of the school field. Both parents were present for their son’s big day, but chose not to pose together, instead opting for separate photo sessions with Cayden.
Kevin, dressed in white pants and a tan jacket, was accompanied by his daughter Lily, who cheered on her half-brother from the stands. The Oscar winner was later seen snapping photos of his children and sharing a heartfelt moment with Cayden, walking away with their arms around each other.
Christine, wearing a brown floral silk dress with a white shawl, was joined by her younger son Hayes and daughter Grace. The siblings were seen celebrating with Cayden in photos obtained by TMZ, where the trio posed affectionately.
Despite the tension from a highly publicized divorce finalized in September 2023, both parents prioritized their son’s celebration. A Santa Barbara court previously ordered Kevin to pay $63,209 per month in child support, significantly less than the amount Christine initially requested. Their prenup terms were enforced, and Christine received a reported $1 million lump sum settlement.
Christine has since moved on and is now engaged to financier Josh Connor, who proposed earlier this year. Kevin, a father of seven, shares three children with Christine and four from previous relationships.
While the graduation wasn’t a reconciliation, it was a reminder that even amid legal battles and emotional distance, parenting milestones still bring families together—even if just for a moment.