“Kevin Costner Gem That Snubbed Robin Williams Quietly Hosted on Netflix: ‘Bless His Heart'”
Kevin Costner Was Shocked to Learn the Real Reason He Landed the Role Over Robin Williams in Field of Dreams
When it comes to films that delve into themes of family, redemption, and forgiveness, few resonate like the 1989 classic Field of Dreams. While on the surface it may appear to be “just another sports film,” its emotional depth and narrative simplicity have made it a beloved staple of American cinema. At its heart was Kevin Costner, who delivered a career-defining performance as Ray Kinsella.
But what many don’t know is that another Hollywood legend was once in the running for the role—Robin Williams. It may seem hard to believe, but Costner ended up being chosen over Williams, a decision that surprised even him at the time. The reason? Something unexpectedly simple and grounded.
Why Kevin Costner Got the Role Over Robin Williams
Robin Williams, known for his unparalleled range and emotional depth, was one of the most sought-after actors in Hollywood during the late 1980s. From comedy to drama, sci-fi to fantasy, Williams could do it all—and directors knew it. So why did Phil Alden Robinson, the director of Field of Dreams, pass on him in favor of Costner?
Costner himself recalled the moment he confronted Robinson about it:
“There was an interesting thing, ’cause Robin Williams—bless his heart—he was a big star, as big as you ever wanna get. And I asked the director, ‘Why me?’”
Robinson’s response was both surprising and insightful. He told Costner that while Williams was a brilliant actor, his naturally expressive and comedic persona might have undercut the emotional gravity of the film. Robinson believed that audiences would be more likely to believe Costner could hear voices in the cornfield—not because he was a better actor, but because of the grounded way he carried himself on screen.
“I’m pretty sure Robin Williams hears voices in the corn,” Robinson reportedly said. “I’m kind of sure that you don’t. They’re gonna end up believing you, Kevin, because they’re gonna see how it works.”
A Turning Point for Both Actors
In hindsight, it’s clear that the casting worked out well for everyone. Field of Dreams went on to become a massive success, earning $64.5 million at the box office and receiving three Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture.
Meanwhile, Robin Williams starred in Dead Poets Society the same year—another timeless classic that became a defining film in his career. It grossed nearly $240 million worldwide and won the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay. Both films have since become iconic, proving that the paths taken by each actor ultimately led to greatness.
Costner Reflects on the Magic of Field of Dreams
Looking back, Costner sees Field of Dreams as a special moment in his career—not because it was a blockbuster, but because of how deeply it moved him on a personal level. He recalls being immediately captivated by the screenplay:
“A good story requires a good script for it to somehow leap off the page and become a movie,” he said. “That little movie had gold dust all over it—not because I thought it would be a hit, but because it moved me. And I believe that if I’m moved, I can find a way to share that with audiences.”
He described the opening pages of the script as “exceptionally sweet,” guiding the story away from cliché and into a heartfelt exploration of dreams, loss, and reconciliation.
