Kevin Costner

With a career built on grit, heart, and timeless storytelling, Kevin Costner has become one of the most respected figures in film. Whether portraying a haunted gunslinger, a devoted father, or a man chasing justice, Costner’s characters reflect the values he holds dear—honor, resilience, and authenticity.

Born January 18, 1955, in Lynwood, California, Costner grew up moving across the Golden State as his father’s career evolved. Sports helped him adjust to new schools, but it was in college—at California State University, Fullerton—that he discovered his passion for acting. After earning a degree in finance and briefly working in marketing, a chance meeting with Richard Burton inspired him to pursue acting full-time.

Costner’s rise wasn’t immediate. Early roles were small, and his first major part in The Big Chill was cut from the final film. But director Lawrence Kasdan kept his promise to cast Costner again—this time in Silverado, which launched him into stardom. From there, he starred in some of the most iconic films of the late 20th century: Field of Dreams, The Bodyguard, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, and Wyatt Earp.

His directorial debut, Dances With Wolves, earned him two Academy Awards and showcased his deep appreciation for history and the American frontier. Costner’s love for Westerns has remained a constant, culminating in his role as John Dutton in the hit series Yellowstone, where he portrays a rancher fighting to preserve his land and legacy.

Beyond acting, Costner is a musician with his band Kevin Costner & Modern West, a businessman, and a philanthropist. His GPS-based app, HearHere, offers travelers rich insights into local history and culture. He’s also a devoted family man, living by the cowboy code on his Colorado ranch with his wife and children.

Explore Kevin Costner’s journey through photos, a timeline of his career, and exclusive features that celebrate the man behind the legend.