Kevin Costner Opens Up About Retirement Plans

Kevin Costner Says He’s Not Retiring Anytime Soon: “Imagination Drives Me, Not a Boss”

At 70 years old and with a legendary career behind him, Kevin Costner has every reason to consider retirement. He’s told countless stories on screen, worked with some of the biggest names in the industry, and built a resume that spans decades—from Bull Durham and The Bodyguard to Dances With Wolves and, more recently, Yellowstone.

At this point, many might wonder what’s left for him to achieve. Maybe it’s time to slow down, reflect on his accomplishments, and enjoy a quieter life with someone special. And indeed, Costner admits that the idea has crossed his mind.

But the notion of retirement? He quickly dismisses it.

“I don’t even think about retiring, because I’ll just move to the next thing that captures my imagination,” Costner says. “Imagination is what determines what I do—not a boss.”

For Costner, passion is the driving force. No executive or studio head can dictate when he stops; it’s all about what still sparks his creativity. “I think we’re all different, and we have different things happening for us,” he adds. “I’ve felt really lucky in my life. I’d like to think I worked for all of it, but not everybody can live by the same blueprint.”

With decades of storytelling behind him, how does he keep his enthusiasm alive? Does he follow a bucket list to stay motivated?

Not quite.

“I don’t have those things,” Costner explains. “I mean, I have a list, but I don’t refer to it that way. My eyes and my enthusiasms are wide open and very big.”

What keeps him going is the thrill of what’s next—the rush of time, the pull of new ideas, and the desire to do something meaningful. “I’ve so enjoyed life and imagining what I can do—what I can be about—and what makes a difference. Not only to me, but to other people. What just satisfies me?” he says. “I go through that whole idea, and you realize—it’s about time. It’s a rush to get to all of them.”