Kevin Costner recently opened up about casting his 15-year-old son, Hayes, in his upcoming film “Horizon: An American Saga.” The decision, which Costner discussed on the June 17 episode of “Today,” was driven by a mix of personal and professional reasons. Despite his general reluctance to involve his children in his projects, Costner felt Hayes was a perfect fit for a smaller role in the film.
Costner, 69, expressed his admiration for Hayes, describing him as a “beautiful boy” and “quiet.” He acknowledged the potential criticism of nepotism but emphasized that he has not pushed his children into the entertainment industry. “I realize there are so many young actors out there that would just kill to be in this movie,” Costner said. “I don’t want to take those parts away from them just ’cause I can place my own children in.”
The role Hayes plays is not extensive, but it holds significant emotional weight. In the film’s trailer, Hayes’ character is seen hiding his mother and sister in a secret door in the floorboards as their home is attacked, seemingly sacrificing himself. Costner praised his son’s performance, calling it “really beautiful” and noting the complexity of the scene. “In the end, there’s a nobility, there’s an absolute fatalness about it. It’s what you want in a son,” he said.
The casting of Hayes is particularly meaningful for Costner, as he named his son after the film’s lead character, Hayes Ellison. The project has been in development for over three decades, and Costner felt a sense of urgency to complete it as he watched his son grow up. “I was watching him grow up and I was thinking, ‘Man, I better get with it and make this movie!'” he told Entertainment Tonight in April.
Costner shares Hayes, as well as two other children, Cayden, 17, and Grace, 14, with his ex-wife Christine Baumgartner. He also has four adult children from previous relationships. Hayes and four of his siblings joined Costner on the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival last month, where “Horizon” received a 10-minute standing ovation.
The family trip to Cannes was a memorable experience for Costner and his children. “I brought five of them and got them tuxedos, I bought them dresses,” Costner said during an appearance on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” on May 22. The trip also served as a mini-vacation, with his sons going fishing and his daughters enjoying a boat ride.
“Horizon: An American Saga” is set to premiere in theaters on June 28. The film, which Costner co-wrote, directed, and stars in, explores the lure of the Old West and the impact of the Civil War on American families. The cast includes Sienna Miller, Sam Worthington, Jena Malone, and Jamie Campbell Bower, among others.
Costner’s decision to cast Hayes was not just about giving his son a role but also about spending quality time together. “I selfishly wanted him with me for the week, two weeks he was with me,” Costner admitted. The father-son duo would drive to the set every day, making the experience even more special.
Despite the potential for criticism, Costner stands by his decision, believing that Hayes’ performance adds a unique impact to the film. “He’s very good in this small part that he’s done,” Costner said. “If you see it, I think he has an impact on the movie.”
As the release date for “Horizon: An American Saga” approaches, Costner is beaming with pride over his son’s acting debut. The film marks a significant milestone in both their lives, capturing a moment of familial bonding and artistic collaboration.
