Kevin Costner

Kevin Costner is a multifaceted American actor, director, and producer, widely recognized for his contributions to film and television over a career spanning several decades. With a distinctive presence both in front of and behind the camera, Costner has become a household name, known for his compelling performances and successful directing ventures.

ABOUT

Kevin Michael Costner was born on January 18, 1955, in Lynwood, California, and raised in Compton, California. He has had a stellar career in Hollywood, earning two Academy Awards, three Golden Globe Awards, a Primetime Emmy Award, and two Screen Actors Guild Awards. Some of his most acclaimed films include "Dances with Wolves," "The Bodyguard," "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves," "Field of Dreams," and "Bull Durham." In addition to his acting career, Costner has directed several highly respected films, including "Dances with Wolves," which won him the Academy Award for Best Director.

BEFORE FAME

Before becoming one of Hollywood's most respected talents, Costner's path to stardom was far from straightforward. He attended California State University, Fullerton, where he studied marketing and finance. Following his graduation in 1978, he took a job in marketing but quickly realized his passion lay elsewhere. His interest in acting was piqued during his college years. After meeting actor Richard Burton on a flight, Costner was inspired to pursue acting more seriously and moved to Hollywood. His early career involved small roles and commercials until his big break came in the 1980s.

TRIVIA

1. Costner's breakthrough role was in the 1987 film "The Untouchables," where he played Eliot Ness.
2. He made his directorial debut with "Dances with Wolves" (1990), which won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director.
3. Costner is also a musician and tours with his country rock band, Kevin Costner & Modern West.
4. He has a penchant for Westerns and baseball films, often reflecting these interests in his film choices.
5. Kevin Costner refused the lead role in "Platoon" (1986) because he felt the film was too anti-war.

FAMILY LIFE

Kevin Costner has been married twice. His first marriage was to Cindy Silva, with whom he has three children: Annie, Lily, and Joe. After their divorce in 1994, Costner had several high-profile relationships before marrying Christine Baumgartner in 2004. He and Christine have three children together: Cayden, Hayes, and Grace. Costner has always maintained a strong commitment to his family and often cites them as his source of inspiration and balance.

ASSOCIATED WITH

Over the years, Kevin Costner has worked with numerous notable actors and filmmakers. He starred alongside Whitney Houston in the romantic thriller "The Bodyguard" (1992). In "Dances with Wolves," he acted alongside Mary McDonnell and Graham Greene. Costner also collaborated with director Ron Shelton on "Bull Durham" (1988) and "Tin Cup" (1996). He shared the screen with Susan Sarandon and Tim Robbins in "Bull Durham," which is considered one of the best sports films ever made.

Kevin Costner remains an influential figure in the entertainment industry, known for his dedication to his craft and his versatility as an artist. Whether it’s through his memorable performances or his compelling directorial ventures, Costner continues to leave an indelible mark on Hollywood.