The Role Kevin Costner Played in Building Hollywood

Kevin Costner has collaborated with a remarkable lineup of iconic actors throughout his career. Legends like Clint Eastwood, Robert De Niro, Gene Hackman, James Earl Jones, and Dennis Hopper have all been part of his professional circle. Despite some box office disappointments, the Yellowstone star commands immense respect among his peers. Yet, there’s one actor in particular who, in Costner’s eyes, truly embodies the spirit of Hollywood.

In a 2022 interview with Front Row Features, Costner reflected on his experience with Field of Dreams. During the conversation, he paid special tribute to Burt Lancaster, whom he regards as a foundational figure in the industry. “I’m glad we’re talking about Burt Lancaster because he’s the kind of actor this business was built on,” Costner remarked. “[He is] a powerhouse who knows how to command the screen.” He continued, “When Burt Lancaster took that role, it was toward the end of his career, and I have a deep admiration for him because he was a physical actor — something I’ve always valued in my own work.”

Costner’s appreciation for physicality is something he carried over into his performance in Waterworld. He compares a particular scene from that film to the kind of athleticism Lancaster would have brought to his roles. “There’s a moment in Waterworld where I hang off the side of the ship — it’s an athletic move, almost like something a gymnast would do. I did that in homage to Burt, after we lost him,” Costner shared. “He was a true professional. Even when he struggled on set, everyone waited for him because we knew how exceptional he was — it only had to be perfect once because he had that magic.”

Costner also holds a heartfelt respect for another close co-star: Whitney Houston. Their bond extended far beyond the screen, and Costner continues to honor her memory publicly. On what would have been her 70th birthday, he shared a photo of the two from their film The Bodyguard, expressing his gratitude for having known her. “This photo reminds me how fortunate I am to celebrate another birthday. We lost such a bright light when Whitney passed,” he wrote.