Kevin Costner, a two-time Oscar-winning actor, was born on January 18, 1955, in Lynwood, California. Throughout his illustrious career, Costner has showcased his versatility by taking on a diverse range of roles in various genres, from Westerns to sports dramas to action-thrillers. His ability to connect with audiences and bring depth to his characters has earned him critical acclaim and widespread admiration.
In addition to his acting prowess, Costner has also successfully ventured into directing, becoming particularly synoynmous with the Western genre where he has showcased his talent behind the camera as well. Costner’s enduring legacy in Hollywood is a testament to his dedication to his craft and his ability to excel both in front of and behind the lens. As he gears up for his Western epic, Horizon: An American Saga, let’s break down 6 of his most iconic roles in TV and film.
6. Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves as Robin of Locksley (1991)
In the 1991 movie Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, Kevin Costner portrays the legendary hero Robin Hood, who returns from the Crusades to find his homeland in turmoil under the tyrannical rule of the Sheriff of Nottingham, played by Alan Rickman. As Robin Hood gathers a band of merry men, including the skilled archer Little John and the jovial Friar Tuck, he leads a rebellion against the corrupt sheriff and fights for justice and equality for the oppressed people of Nottingham. Robin Hood serves as the moral compass for the other characters, embodying courage, selflessness, and a strong sense of righteousness. The movie was a box office smash, grossing an impressive $390.5 million worldwide against a budget of $48 million, solidifying Costner’s portrayal of the iconic hero as a fan-favorite interpretation of the classic folklore.
Watch Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves on Netflix
5. The Untouchables as Eliot Ness (1987)
The 1987 Oscar-winning movie The Untouchables follows the story of Eliot Ness (Kevin Costner), who leads a team of law enforcement agents nicknamed The Untouchables, handpicked for their unwavering integrity and incorruptibility. Set during the Prohibition era, Ness and his team, which includes the street-smart Jim Malone (played by Sean Connery) and the sharpshooter George Stone (played by Andy Garcia), are tasked with taking down the ruthless and powerful gangster Al Capone, played by Robert De Niro. Costner shines as the steadfast leader, determined to uphold justice and bring down Capone’s criminal empire. The movie is based on Ness’ memoirs, which were published in 1957, and showcases the real-life struggles and triumphs of the iconic lawman and his fearless team in their mission to bring down one of the most notorious figures in American history.
Watch The Untouchables on Prime Video
4. Wyatt Earp as Wyatt Earp (1994)
The 1994 movie Wyatt Earp follows the life of the legendary lawman and gunfighter, portrayed by Kevin Costner, as he navigates the treacherous Wild West. The film delves into Earp’s personal and professional struggles, including his time as a lawman and his involvement in the famous gunfight at the OK Corral. Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics, Wyatt Earp stands as an action-packed Western movie, showcasing the remarkable performances of its talented cast, with Costner’s portrayal of the iconic figure being a standout. Costner’s commanding presence and charisma make him a natural fit for the Western genre, drawing audiences in with his compelling portrayal of the complex and morally ambiguous character of Wyatt Earp.
3. Field of Dreams as Ray Kinsella (1989)
Field of Dreams is an iconic movie that tells the story of a goodhearted, focused, and determined man named Ray Kinsella, played by Kevin Costner, who embarks on a unique and surreal journey after hearing a mysterious voice telling him to build a baseball diamond in the middle of his cornfield. Despite skepticism and ridicule from those around him, Costner’s character follows his gut instincts and begins constructing the field, which ultimately leads to a remarkable and heartwarming series of events. Alongside an impressive supporting cast including Ray Liotta, Costner delivers a tour-de-force rendition as Ray, bringing depth and emotion to his portrayal of a man who is willing to take a leap of faith and pursue his dreams, even when everyone else doubts him. With its themes of hope, redemption, and the power of following one’s passions, Field of Dreams remains a beloved and timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.
Watch Field of Dreams on Prime Video
2. Yellowstone as John Dutton (2018-2022)
Kevin Costner has expanded his status in the Western genre by venturing into the television realm with Taylor Sheridan‘s critically acclaimed series, Yellowstone. The show follows the Dutton family, owners of the largest ranch in the United States, as they navigate the complex world of politics, power struggles, and family dynamics in modern-day Montana. Costner delivers an enthralling lead role as John Dutton, the patriarch of the family, blending charm, intensity, and physicality in his portrayal of a man defined by his unwavering loyalty to his family and his deep connection to the land of Yellowstone.
With his commanding presence and nuanced performance, Costner brings a compelling complexity to the character of John Dutton, making him a captivating and formidable figure in the series. Through his role in Yellowstone, Costner continues to showcase his versatility as an actor and his ability to command the screen in both film and television projects, solidifying his status as a powerhouse in the Western genre. After a three year gap, Yellowstone will conclude with the second part of it’s fifth season in November 2024.
Watch Yellowstone on Apple TV+
1. Dances with Wolves as Lieutenant Dunbar (1990)
Dances with Wolves, released in 1990, is a sweeping epic that follows the story of Lieutenant John Dunbar, played by Kevin Costner, a Civil War soldier who befriends a tribe of Lakota Sioux Native Americans and ultimately becomes a respected member of the tribe. As Dunbar immerses himself in the Lakota culture and way of life, he develops a deep bond with a woman named Stands With A Fist, played by Mary McDonnell, and finds himself torn between two worlds. Not only did Kevin Costner wow audiences and critics worldwide with his lead role in Dances with Wolves, but he also showcased himself as a master filmmaker, with the film winning 7 Academy Awards including Best Picture and Best Director for Costner.
Considering the movie was Costner’s first foray into directing, this makes his achievements all the more remarkable. Through his performance and direction, Costner brought a sense of authenticity and sensitivity to the portrayal of Native American culture, earning praise for his dedication to telling a powerful and poignant story. Dances with Wolves remains a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences, solidifying Kevin Costner’s legacy as a versatile and talented actor and filmmaker. Want to read about more actors who transitioned to a role behind the camera? Here are 9 top actors who are also successful directors.
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