KEVIN COSTNER RETURNS! A December 9 Christmas special brings him back to TV — but will this mark his full comeback?

A Special Night on TV for Yellowstone’s John Dutton

You don’t have to wait for Western epics or streaming spinoffs to catch Kevin Costner on screen again. On Tuesday, December 9 at 8 PM EST, Costner returns to network television with a brand‑new special: Kevin Costner Presents: The First Christmas. The two‑hour feature will retell the story of Mary, Joseph, and the birth of Jesus — with Costner hosting the event.

He recently told People magazine: “It’s a story I think we all think we know… but maybe you know just a little — or maybe you’re just curious to see the real story behind the tradition.”Kevin Costner Film For Love Of The Game (USA 1999) Characters: Billy Chapel  Director: Sam Raimi 15 September 1999 **WARNING** This Photograph is for  editorial use only and is the copyright of

From Yellowstone Exit to a Festive Rebirth

Although Costner’s departure from his hit neo-Western series Yellowstone left many fans divided, it never meant he was stepping away from the spotlight. Instead, he shifted his focus toward film — most notably, his ambitious Western saga, Horizon: An American Saga.

However, appearing again on TV in a very different light — not as a rancher, but as a storyteller — offers a unique treat. It shows his artistic range and willingness to explore new formats.

What to Expect from the Christmas Special

  • two‑hour retelling of the nativity story — guided by Costner’s narration.

  • A blend of classic storytelling and cinematic visuals, promising reverence and authenticity.

  • A chance for viewers of all backgrounds — believers, skeptics, or simply curious — to experience the traditional Christmas origin tale in a renewed light.

Ahead of holiday season, Kevin Costner returns to TV with a new ABC  Christmas special

More Than Nostalgia: Costner’s Ongoing Artistic Vision

While his first project after Yellowstone was Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 1, which debuted in June 2024, Costner didn’t rest. Even though Chapter 1 got mixed reviews and lower than expected box‑office returns, filming for Chapter 3 began in May 2024. According to co‑star Danny Huston, much of Chapter 3 is already “in the can,” indicating Costner’s determination to bring his Western epic to completion.

Still, the financial and production uncertainties around future installments — especially Chapter 4 — make the December 9 TV special feel timely and important. It’s a reminder that Costner isn’t done evolving as an artist.