Kevin Costner, the iconic star of Yellowstone and countless Hollywood blockbusters, may be playing it cool when it comes to his relationship with singer-songwriter Jewel, but insiders say the sparks are far from fiction.

In a June 2024 interview with Howard Stern, the 70-year-old actor went on record insisting that he and the 54-year-old “Foolish Games” artist were “just friends.” Costner called Jewel “fantastic” and “special,” even adding, “She’s everything you might think, but it just hasn’t happened.” His concern was clear — he didn’t want romance rumors to derail a valuable friendship.

Yet, not everyone is buying the “just friends” narrative.

Behind the Scenes: His Heart, Her Career

According to Life & Style magazine, an insider with knowledge of the situation claims Costner made real efforts to court Jewel. But the problem? Jewel isn’t in the market for a Hollywood fairytale.

“Kevin’s big miscalculation in his ongoing attempts to woo Jewel is failing to understand that she isn’t done yet,” the source revealed. “She’s still writing, recording, and pouring herself into her music career. She’s not someone looking to be arm candy for any celebrity — no matter how legendary.”

It appears that the Grammy-nominated singer’s ambition may have clashed with Costner’s lifestyle, which remains very much immersed in A-list Hollywood.

Necker Island: Where the Rumors Took Root

Romance speculation first took off in November 2023, when Costner and Jewel were spotted at a charity tennis tournament on Necker Island — Richard Branson’s private paradise in the British Virgin Islands. Eyewitnesses couldn’t help but notice the chemistry.

“Kevin looked handsome, tan and fit,” an attendee shared with In Touch Weekly. “All the guests were going crazy over him. He really hit it off with Jewel.”

Though they weren’t seen locking lips or holding hands, their cozy camaraderie was enough to set tongues wagging. The island sun may have faded, but the rumors only grew brighter.

Jewel’s Blush Says More Than Words

In April 2024, Jewel was asked about Costner during an interview with Elle. Her answer was vague: “He’s a great person… the public fascination is intense for sure.” But the publication noted a telling detail — she blushed while speaking about him.

Was it the blush of admiration? Embarrassment? Or something a little more electric? While Jewel didn’t elaborate, that simple human reaction has kept fans speculating about what might have been — or still could be.

Hollywood’s Silver Fox Still a Hot Topic

Since his high-profile divorce from Christine Baumgartner in February 2024, Costner has been linked to several other women — most notably Hoda Kotb, Jennifer Lopez, and even Sharon Stone. Yet none of these rumored romances have gone beyond headlines.

“Kevin would have loved to collaborate with [Jewel] and even date her,” the insider claimed, “but he has to resign himself to being her number one fan instead.”

An Unwritten Love Song

Despite all the buzz, the Costner-Jewel storyline seems to remain in the realm of “what if.” He’s a celebrated actor with decades of fame behind him; she’s an artist still crafting new chapters in her story. Perhaps timing is the only villain in this tale.

For now, Kevin Costner is still one of Hollywood’s most eligible bachelors — and Jewel? She’s still climbing her mountains, guitar in hand, with or without a leading man.

And maybe that’s what makes this “friendship” all the more fascinating — it’s real, it’s respectful, and for now, it’s unfinished.