Kevin Costner Reflects on Late Start in Hollywood

Kevin Costner speaks onstage during the 94th Annual Academy Awards at Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, Calif., on March 27, 2022. Neilson Barnard/Getty Images

Kevin Costner recently shared insights into his early career struggles and triumphs on Dax Shepard’s “Armchair Expert“ podcast.

Reflecting on his journey, Mr. Costner recalled his doubts about making it in Hollywood while working as a stage manager at Raleigh Studios, earning just $3.25 an hour, and watching stars like Richard Gere and Mel Gibson land roles.

Mr. Costner noted that his breakthrough came relatively late, at around 27 or 28, unlike Tom Cruise, who found fame at 18. Despite the initial hurdles, Mr. Costner realized that with limited film roles available annually, he needed to explore opportunities others passed up.

“Actors all want to have agents, but you kind of realize that you get 90 percent of the money, maybe you’re supposed to do 90 percent of the work,” he told the podcast on June 3.

Describing a pivotal moment, Mr. Costner mentioned his experience with the film “The Big Chill,” where, although his scenes were cut, it marked a turning point. He felt he was among the right people and understood that this wasn’t the end of his journey. The actor explained, “I wasn’t in the movie, but I realized that wasn’t going to be my last movie.”

Soon after, his role in “Silverado” catapulted him to stardom. Mr. Costner initially felt unprepared for the energetic character he was cast to play but embraced the challenge and delivered a standout performance.

Following “Silverado,” Orion Studios offered him multiple roles, all of which he declined, seeking a project that resonated with him. This led to his choice of “Finish with Engines,” which later became “No Way Out.” The film, co-starring Gene Hackman, was a commercial success, more than doubling its budget at the box office.

Mr. Costner’s career continued to flourish with hits like “Bull Durham,” “Field of Dreams,” “The Bodyguard,” and “Dances with Wolves,” the latter earning him two Academy Awards, including best director and best picture. More recently, the actor starred in the popular Paramount Network series “Yellowstone,” initially committing to just three seasons but ultimately staying for five. He praised the show’s creator, Taylor Sheridan, for writing authentic and engaging content.

New Horizons

Mr. Costner has departed from “Yellowstone” to focus on his new project, “Horizon: An American Saga.” The first two installments are set for release on June 28 and Aug. 16, and production is underway for the subsequent chapters. This marks Mr. Costner’s return to feature film directing. Not only did he direct and star in the film, but he also co-wrote it.

The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, reportedly receiving a 10-minute standing ovation. The actor attended the event with five of his seven children, including 15-year-old Hayes, who appears alongside his dad in the film.

Set during the Civil War from 1861 to 1865, the film follows Mr. Costner’s character, Hayes Ellison, as he ventures to a new land called Horizon. The story unfolds through the lens of families, friends, and foes, exploring the lure of the Old West and how it was won and lost.

In addition to Mr. Costner, the movie features a talented ensemble cast, including Sienna Miller, Sam Worthington, Giovanni Ribisi, Abbey Lee, Will Patton, Jena Malone, Michael Rooker, Danny Huston, Luke Wilson, and Jeff Fahey.