The Bobby Bones Show: Episode Summary Episode Title: Kevin Costner's Farewell, Lainey Wilson's Role, Plus Ryan Bingham & Jackson Dean
Release Date: February 27, 2025
Host: Bobby Bones
Guest Stars: Kevin Costner, Lainey Wilson, Ryan Bingham, Jackson Dean

1. Kevin Costner's Farewell to Yellowstone

Overview:
Bobby Bones opens the episode by addressing the significant news of Kevin Costner's departure from the acclaimed series Yellowstone. In an exclusive conversation, Costner delves into his reasons for stepping away and reflects on his journey with the show.

Key Points & Insights:

• Duration of Involvement: Kevin originally intended to commit to only one season but extended his role to five due to his passion for the show.

  Kevin Costner (01:15): "I was going, I really love that show. I did five... I wanted to handle Yellowstone's business, and then I would go do my own."

• Decision to Leave: Balancing his time between Yellowstone and personal projects became untenable, leading to his final decision.

  Kevin Costner (02:38): "I have a healthy love of what it's done for me... I think you nailed it. You have to be able to go forward in my life."

• Finality and Openness: While Costner firmly states his departure, he remains open to future possibilities should circumstances dramatically change.

  Kevin Costner (03:21): "I'm not going to do Yellowstone if something changes dramatically... my heart's open to anything, but I'm done with that show at this point."

Notable Quote:

Bobby Bones (02:43): "You don't have a dislike for Yellowstone. You just have more of a love for what you wanted to do."
Kevin Costner (02:43): "I love Yellowstone... There's a moment in time where you... you have to be able to go forward in my life."

2. Lainey Wilson's Role in Yellowstone

Overview:
Country music sensation Lainey Wilson shares her unique experience of being cast in Yellowstone. From initial auditions to developing her character, Wilson provides an insider's look at her integration into the show's dynamic.

Key Points & Insights:

• Audition Process: Wilson's first audition in 2020 wasn't successful, but perseverance led to a tailored role.

  Lainey Wilson (03:57): "I even went and read some of my lines in front of Taylor Sheridan... I did terrible."

• Character Development: Taylor Sheridan created a specific character, Abby, allowing Wilson to showcase her musical talents while maintaining her authentic persona.

  Lainey Wilson (04:48): "He created the character... you could still wear what you wear and sing your own songs."

• On-Set Experience: Despite initial nerves, Wilson found a supportive environment, particularly highlighting Beth Kelly Reilly's professionalism.

  Lainey Wilson (04:50): "Terrified... Beth Kelly Reilly... she made me feel comfortable."

• Future Prospects: Wilson expresses enthusiasm for future opportunities, open to exploring diverse roles beyond her musician persona.

  Lainey Wilson (07:22): "I am definitely open to the opportunities... Maybe it's a character that's not a musician."

Notable Quote:

Lainey Wilson (05:36): "She is truly the best. And I feel like too, I got to stand side stage and watch her... she would not break her character until the evening when it was over."

3. Ryan Bingham's Character and Musical Influence

Overview:
Ryan Bingham discusses his role as Walker on Yellowstone, detailing the casting process, character development, and his contributions to the show's musical landscape.

Key Points & Insights:

• Casting Journey: Bingham's entry into the show wasn't part of the original plan. Taylor Sheridan recognized his musical talents and rodeo skills, integrating them into his character.

  Ryan Bingham (09:23): "We came up with the character of Walker... If you suck, we'll just kill you off."

• Authenticity in Performance: Emphasizing realism, Bingham maintains his character's authenticity, even in musical performances on screen.

  Ryan Bingham (10:58): "For it to be authentic, Walker would probably be out of tune... So I just let it roll."

• On-Set Relationships: Bingham highlights the camaraderie among the cast, particularly his friendship with Jefferson Perez, fostering a positive working environment.

  Ryan Bingham (12:09): "I really like everybody... Jefferson is one guy for sure."

• Montana Experience: Reflecting on the filming location, Bingham appreciates the natural beauty and the warm reception from the local community.

  Ryan Bingham (12:58): "It's a beautiful place and big thanks to all the local folks here in Montana."

Notable Quote:

Ryan Bingham (10:20): "I don't get to keep all the clothes... My hat and my boots and my jeans and stuff. Some of that stuff I just brought myself."

4. Jackson Dean's Musical Contributions to Yellowstone

Overview:
Jackson Dean provides an in-depth look into how his music became an integral part of Yellowstone. From securing his first placement to his ongoing collaboration with the show's production team, Dean discusses his artistic journey.

Key Points & Insights:

• Breaking into the Show: Dean credits his agent, who previously babysat him, for facilitating his introduction to Yellowstone.

  Jackson Dean (14:08): "Yellowstone found us via my agent out in LA who actually babysat me when I was a kid."

• Song Placement Process: Dean explains that the show's team actively monitors and selects his songs based on fit and timing, leading to strategic placements like his hit "Don't Come Looking."

  Jackson Dean (18:02): "They Loved the song and they did with it what they will... Timing is truly everything."

• Personal Inspirations: Drawing from his Arkansas roots and family background, Dean infuses authenticity into his music, resonating with the show's themes of family and rugged lifestyle.

  Jackson Dean (15:20): "Me and my dad used to watch westerns all the time when I was a kid... It's a beautiful, beautiful life to live."

• Creative Philosophy: Dean embraces a natural, unguarded approach to his artistry, allowing his experiences to shape his music organically.

  Jackson Dean (23:21): "The more life that it gets to absorb... the better the patina is going to be."

• Future Aspirations: Dean remains eager to continue contributing to the show's score and exploring new musical avenues within Yellowstone.

  Jackson Dean (20:16): "I'd want to do it in a heartbeat... It would be really, really awesome."

Notable Quotes:

Jackson Dean (17:33): "I've named a few things in my personal life after my dog... probably Elk River Ranch or something like that."
Jackson Dean (24:43): "First time I ever really heard him sing it back... it was one of the hottest shows I ever played."

Conclusion

In this episode, Bobby Bones provides listeners with an exclusive glimpse into the behind-the-scenes dynamics of Yellowstone. From Kevin Costner's heartfelt farewell to the creative contributions of Lainey Wilson, Ryan Bingham, and Jackson Dean, the discussions offer a comprehensive understanding of the show's enduring impact and the talented individuals who bring it to life. The integration of authentic storytelling and musical prowess underscores Yellowstone's position as a cultural phenomenon in both television and music landscapes.

Notable Production Credits:

• Executive Producers: Jason Reed, Lindsey Hoffman, Carl Cadle, Kevin O'Connell
• Senior Manager of Podcast Marketing: Allie Kanner Graber
• President of iHeartMedia Podcast: Will Pearson
• Special Thanks: Whitney Baxter, Xavier Offright, Barbara Pareda, Emily Curry, Joe Flattery
• Production Association: 101 Studios
• Executive Producer at 101 Studios: Scott Stone
• Director of Podcast Development and Production: Danielle Waxman
• Support Team: Michelle Newman, David Glasser, David Hutkin

Produced by Premiere Networks and supported by iHeartMedia Podcasts and MTV Entertainment Studios.