Veteran actor and director Kevin Costner, known for his long-standing association with Western-themed films, is stepping away from that genre with his upcoming thriller, Headhunters, slated for release in 2026. After years devoted to the Horizon series, an ambitious project centered on the expansion of the American West, Costner is now embracing a new storyline that departs significantly from his recent work.
Costner’s Horizon franchise began with Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 1, which he both directed and starred in. Although there were plans for a second and even a third chapter, the future of the series grew uncertain after the initial film’s poor performance in theaters. Despite the project’s estimated $100 million production budget, the first installment earned only $38.8 million worldwide, resulting in the removal of Chapter 2 from the release schedule. Though Horizon found some audience through streaming platforms, the follow-up has yet to be scheduled or confirmed.
An Engaging Role in the Thriller Headhunters
While the Horizon saga remains in limbo, Costner’s new venture, Headhunters, offers him a prominent role in a much different setting. The film follows Lazer, an expatriate who leads a group of surfers to a remote island renowned for its perfect waves. However, this idyllic scenario takes a dark turn when local headhunters fiercely defend their territory, setting the stage for an intense conflict.
Costner leads the cast as Lazer, supported by Chloe East, Daniel Zovatto, Sam Corlett, and Evan Mock. Steven Holleran directs the thriller and shares co-writing credits with Costner. Although the exact release date remains unannounced, Headhunters is scheduled to premiere in 2026. This project marks a notable shift for Costner, giving him the chance to explore a thriller role after years dedicated largely to Western dramas like Yellowstone and Horizon.
Uncertain Future for the Horizon Western Series
Despite Costner’s commitment to the Horizon saga, its continuation remains doubtful. Besides the commercial challenges the initial film faced, the follow-up chapter is also plagued by production delays and unresolved legal matters. These issues have stalled any clear progress and leave the future of the planned Western series precarious.
Costner’s involvement in Headhunters suggests that, for now, his attention is directed elsewhere rather than on reviving the Horizon project. This shift may further reduce the chances of completing the deeply personal saga that he envisioned, unless there is renewed momentum from studios or financiers willing to back his vision.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How much money did Kevin Costner get per episode of Yellowstone?
A. Kevin Costner’s Impressive Earnings Kevin Costner, portraying John Dutton, receives $1.2 million for each episode. This salary made him the top-earning TV actor at that time.
Lee Dutton’s Surprising Demise Lee Dutton, the oldest son of John, died unexpectedly in the first episode of the series.
Q. Did Kevin Costner like Alan Rickman?
A. Even though Alan Rickman helped rescue Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, his role reportedly made Kevin Costner, a main actor in the movie, feel overshadowed and frustrated.
