Kevin Costner discusses future plans and retirement at 70, revealing that leaving the industry is not something he envisions for himself, even as he marks a lifetime of achievements in Hollywood. The actor, who recently turned 70, continues to dedicate his creativity to new projects and declares that age has not diminished his desire for storytelling or making an impact on the industry.
Costner’s Perspective on Stepping Away from Acting
Kevin Costner, known for his long-standing career in film and television, has been vocal about his determination to keep working, regardless of his age. In an interview with PEOPLE Magazine, he made his position clear:
“I don’t even think about retiring, because I’ll just move to the next thing that captures my imagination,”
—Kevin Costner. The acclaimed filmmaker pointed out that his passion and creativity still guide his career decisions, rather than any external factors.
According to Costner, inspiration is what really drives the projects he takes on.
“My imagination is what determines what I do, not a boss. I think we’re all different and we have different things happening for us,”
—Kevin Costner. He reflected on his unique professional journey and the unpredictable nature of individual careers.
“I’ve felt really lucky in my life. I’d like to think that I worked for all of it, but not everybody can live by the same blueprint.”
—Kevin Costner. These reflections underline his gratitude and awareness that his trajectory may not be typical for everyone in show business.
Enthusiasm for New Creative Ventures
Since his early days, starting with a role in Sizzle Beach, Kevin Costner has remained a prominent figure in Hollywood, earning critical recognition and numerous awards over the years. Despite reaching a milestone age and having accomplished much, Costner demonstrates a clear eagerness for future undertakings, notably through his latest endeavor, Horizon: An American Saga.
When discussing his plans, Costner revealed that conventional lists of future goals do not guide him.
“I don’t have those things. I have that list but I don’t refer to it that way. But certainly my eyes and my enthusiasm are wide open and very big,”
—Kevin Costner. His comments suggest an openness to new experiences and a curiosity about new stories still to be told.
The actor shared further insight into what keeps him motivated, describing how he draws fulfillment from imaginative pursuits and by considering the difference he can make, not just for himself but for others.
“I’ve so enjoyed life and imagining what I can do, what can I be about and what makes a difference. Not only me, but to other people. What just satisfies me?”
—Kevin Costner. His attitude points to a relentless pursuit of both personal and professional satisfaction.
Belief in More Opportunities Ahead
Costner’s hopes for what lies ahead have been consistent over the years. In a 2019 interview with AARP, he addressed the idea of retirement and his outlook on continuing his career.
“I really feel like some of the great surprises I have are in front of me,”
—Kevin Costner. He went on to highlight his focus on writing and his excitement for future projects:
“As I play out the second half of my career, I’ve been doing a lot of writing, and there are projects that I still want to do.”
—Kevin Costner.
Beyond his professional life, Costner emphasized the other facets of his existence outside the limelight.
“My life is a lot more than movies. I just periodically pop up in them. In between, I’m living my other life,”
—Kevin Costner. His perspective reveals an understanding that his identity is not solely defined by his film work.
Legal Issues Involving Costner’s Recent Work
Costner’s current stance on retirement and ongoing creative pursuits comes at a time when he is also in the spotlight due to a lawsuit connected to his latest project, Horizon: An American Saga. The case involves Devyn LaBella, a stunt performer who worked on the second installment of the film.
According to recent reports, LaBella filed a lawsuit against Costner, alleging that he subjected her to an unscripted and intimate scene while filming. The lawsuit refers to an incident in May 2023, where LaBella claims to have experienced a scene that was not present in the script and for which she did not provide consent. The lack of an intimacy coordinator during this scene reportedly contributed to what she described as “permanent trauma.” LaBella detailed that the contract of Ella Hunt, the actress she was doubling for, stipulated that a coordinator was required for any intimate scenes, raising questions about on-set protocol.
As filming progressed, it was allegedly communicated to LaBella that she would need to stand in during a
“scripted, aggressive and intimate rape scene”
due to the nature of the action. The situation escalated when Costner allegedly added a scene involving another actor, Roger Ivens, who was instructed to
“climb on top of Ms Hunt, violently raking up her skirt.”
With Hunt refusing to participate in the scene, LaBella claimed she was then asked to perform without proper preparation or consent, a move not covered in her role as a stunt double.
LaBella recounted the emotional toll the incident took, as she reflected on feelings of
“shame, humiliation, and complete lack of control.”
The controversy has cast a shadow over the production, highlighting the importance of safeguarding actors’ and performers’ well-being during filming.
Looking Ahead for Costner and the Industry
Kevin Costner’s future in film remains the subject of public interest, both for his contributions as a storyteller and the challenges now surrounding his ongoing projects. While his statements indicate no intention to step away from storytelling, the legal case involving the Horizon: An American Saga production has brought significant attention to safety and ethical considerations in the industry.
As proceedings continue, the outcome may influence standards for stunt performers and the protocols governing intimate scenes in Hollywood. For Costner, the coming years will test both his creative resolve and the resilience of those around him as he navigates success and scrutiny at this stage of his career. His journey, marked by both acclaim and controversy, underscores the complexities of staying active in film while responding to the evolving demands and expectations of today’s entertainment landscape.
