Kevin Michael Costner, born January 18, 1955, is a renowned American actor and filmmaker celebrated for his compelling portrayals of complex characters. He gained widespread recognition with films like Silverado (1985), Bull Durham (1988), and Field of Dreams (1989), and earned two Academy Awards for his work on Dances With Wolves (1990). More recently, he has captivated audiences with his role in the television series Yellowstone (2018–2023). With a career spanning over 40 years, Costner has achieved both critical acclaim and commercial success.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Kevin Michael Costner |
| Date of Birth | January 18, 1955 |
| Place of Birth | Lynwood, California, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Spouse | Cindy Silva (1978–1994), Christine Baumgartner (2004–2023, divorced) |
| Children | Annie, Lily, Joe (with Cindy Silva), Liam (with Bridget Rooney), Cayden, Hayes, Grace (with Christine Baumgartner) |
| Occupations | Actor, film director, producer, musician |
| Net Worth | Approximately $400 million |
Early Life and Education
Kevin Costner grew up in Compton, California, in a working-class family. He was raised by his parents William, an electrician, and Sharon, a welfare worker, along with his two brothers.
After losing a middle brother at birth, Costner was the youngest surviving sibling.
During his youth, he was active in sports like football and baseball at Villa Park High School in Orange County, which helped nurture his competitive drive and storytelling interests.
He attended California State University, Fullerton, initially studying business administration. While working part-time in marketing, a chance encounter with actor Burt Reynolds during his honeymoon inspired him to pursue acting.
Encouraged by Reynolds, Costner began taking night theater classes while finishing his degree, balancing practical work with his passion for performance until he graduated in 1978.
Career
Costner’s early roles were small parts in low-budget films such as Sizzle Beach, U.S.A. (1981). His big break came in 1985 with the western Silverado, which showcased his natural charm and physical presence. This led to acclaimed roles like Eliot Ness in The Untouchables (1987), where he starred alongside Sean Connery.
By the late 1980s, Costner became a household name with standout performances in Bull Durham (1988) and Field of Dreams (1989). These films combined heartfelt storytelling with iconic American themes, earning him critical and popular acclaim.
In 1990, Costner took a bold step by directing, producing, and starring in Dances With Wolves, an epic Western that won seven Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Director for Costner.
Though some later films like Wyatt Earp (1994) and Waterworld (1995) received mixed reviews, he remained a major box office draw with hits like The Bodyguard (1992) and Tin Cup (1996).
His directorial ventures showed his willingness to tackle ambitious projects, even if they polarized audiences.
In the 2000s, Costner expanded his range with roles in political dramas (Thirteen Days), thrillers (Mr. Brooks), and family films (McFarland, USA).
His Emmy-winning role in the miniseries Hatfields & McCoys (2012) marked a successful transition to television, culminating in his acclaimed portrayal of John Dutton in Yellowstone.
Costner also continued directing Western-themed films like Open Range (2003) and is set to release Horizon: An American Saga (2024), demonstrating his ongoing passion for the genre and adaptability to new media landscapes.
Personal Life
Costner’s personal life has been eventful. He married Cindy Silva in 1978, with whom he had three children before divorcing in 1994. He fathered a son with Bridget Rooney in 1996.
In 2004, he married Christine Baumgartner, and they had three children together before divorcing in 2023. The divorce was finalized amicably in early 2024. Baumgartner has since moved on, while Costner remains focused on his career and family.
Net Worth
Estimated at $400 million, Costner’s wealth comes from his extensive film and television work, producing credits, and business ventures.
He reportedly earns about $19.3 million annually, including lucrative deals from Yellowstone, where he earned up to $1.3 million per episode. His real estate holdings in Aspen, Santa Barbara, and Carpinteria are valued at over $100 million.
Additionally, he co-developed a patented oil-water separation technology used in environmental cleanup efforts, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit.
Filmography
Some of Costner’s most notable works include:
- 1980s: Silverado (1985), The Untouchables (1987), Bull Durham (1988), Field of Dreams (1989)
- 1990s: Dances With Wolves (1990), Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (1991), The Bodyguard (1992), Waterworld (1995), Tin Cup (1996)
- 2000s: Thirteen Days (2000), Open Range (2003), The Upside of Anger (2005)
- 2010s–2020s: Hatfields & McCoys (2012), Yellowstone (2018–2023), Horizon: An American Saga (2024)
Awards and Nominations
Kevin Costner’s career has been decorated with numerous honors:
- Academy Awards: 2 wins (Best Director and Best Picture for Dances With Wolves)
- Golden Globe Awards: 3 wins including Best Director and Best Actor
- Primetime Emmy Award: For Outstanding Lead Actor in a Miniseries or Movie (Hatfields & McCoys)
- Multiple nominations across Oscars, Golden Globes, and Emmys for acting and directing
