“Kevin Costner’s Former Agent Defends Actor After Public Beef With Wes Bentley”
Kevin Costner’s Former Agent Defends Him Amid Fallout With Wes Bentley
Kevin Costner has long been the subject of speculation regarding his reputation on set, with some labeling him “difficult” to work with. His recent reported clash with Yellowstone co-star Wes Bentley during filming in Utah appears to have added fuel to that perception — potentially playing a role in the unraveling of his involvement with the hit series.
Over the years, Costner’s career has been punctuated by high-profile feuds, abrupt walkouts, and even lawsuits. Notably, he’s had contentious relationships with Hollywood heavyweights like Clint Eastwood and Kurt Russell, often stemming from creative disagreements. Even close collaborators such as producer Jim Wilson — once a longtime friend — have found themselves at odds with him, with their dispute ultimately landing in court.
But according to Rick Nicita, Costner’s agent from 2002 until Nicita’s retirement in 2008, the narrative of Costner being “difficult” misses the mark.
“The word ‘difficult’ gets thrown around a lot,” Nicita said. “It can mean anything from someone who won’t leave their trailer to someone who’s rude or unprepared. That’s not Kevin. He’s just very clear on what he wants and isn’t the best at compromising. He’s confident — and to some, that confidence might come across as arrogance.”
Costner, known for keeping a tight-knit inner circle, tends to avoid the typical Hollywood crowd. He works closely with figures like businessman Rod Lake and Howard Kaplan, a former Price Waterhouse accountant who now serves as a trusted advisor. After Nicita’s departure from CAA in 2008, Costner transitioned to WME, which currently represents him.
Despite stepping away from official representation, Nicita remains in occasional contact with the actor. “Kevin has always believed in his ability to make things happen,” Nicita said. “He’s never been one to scheme or play games — he’s always gone straight at things. The difference now is, the landscape has changed. The strike zone is smaller. But I wouldn’t count him out.”
In the end, like many iconic stars, Kevin Costner is a complex figure — driven, sometimes uncompromising, but undeniably talented. Whatever the headlines may say, he continues to be a major force in Hollywood.
