AceShowbiz - Fans of the hit Paramount Network series "Yellowstone" have witnessed drama, conflict, and thrilling moments throughout its run. But as the neo-Western family drama films its final episodes, major changes have emerged behind the scenes - notably, the absence of Kevin Costner, the two-time Oscar-winner who played patriarch John Dutton.

Costner's departure, attributed to scheduling conflicts with his self-funded film series "Horizon: An American Saga," has led to frictions with showrunner Taylor Sheridan and had a significant impact on the show and its cast. Luke Grimes, who portrays Kayce Dutton, recently spoke with Esquire about his experience filming the final season without Costner. "Hopefully everyone can see that it was time," Grimes noted, reflecting on Costner's exit.

Grimes acknowledged that Costner's absence brought a certain ease to the set. "To be really honest, there was a part of Kevin being gone that meant some of the conflict was gone. Obviously, it didn't make it super fun to be around. Not pointing any fingers, but it was actually the easiest season we've filmed," he said.

The lack of Costner also allowed Grimes' character to evolve. Kayce Dutton, often overshadowed by his father, stepped into the spotlight in the absence of John Dutton. "Kayce's kind of the silent killer, and it's great whenever he gets to use that energy for something good. [...] Now he gets to step up and figure everything out," Grimes explained. This change brought a "nice payoff" for Grimes, both professionally and personally.

Though the main series is concluding, the "Yellowstone" universe is far from over. A spin-off centered on Kelly Reilly and Cole Hauser's characters, Beth Dutton and Rip Wheeler, is in the works. Other expansions, including "1923" and "The Madison," promise to keep the storytelling flame alive within the beloved series' universe.

The final chapter of "Yellowstone" airs its much-anticipated finale, "Life Is a Promise," on Sunday, Dec. 15 at 8 p.m. ET. As the series concludes, Grimes muses on what it means for his character and for fans. "Kayce wants to cowboy and be happy with his family. He doesn't want the weight of a huge mega-ranch that isn't sustainable in today's times. He wants his little slice of heaven. It's that simple."

For Grimes, the time away from the show may eventually allow him to appreciate it from a viewer's perspective. He reflected, "I want to like the show, and I bet one day I will, but it was kind of hard to because I was still in it. I want to give it a couple years, and just to cleanse the palette. Then I'll go through all of it."