If you are a fan of Kevin Costner Hatfields McCoys and appreciate his work in Western dramas like Yellowstone, the History Channel’s miniseries Hatfields & McCoys offers a gripping experience rooted in American history. This nearly five-hour, three-part series dives into the notorious feud between two Appalachian families, with Costner portraying the formidable “Devil” Anse Hatfield in a role that demands both intensity and complexity.
Kevin Costner’s Powerful Portrayal of ‘Devil’ Anse Hatfield
While Bill Paxton delivers a commanding performance as Randall McCoy, it is Kevin Costner’s depiction of “Devil” Anse Hatfield that dominates the narrative. Costner’s Emmy-winning portrayal captures the depth of a tough and deeply flawed character, reflecting a nearly biblical hardness in Anse’s heart. In a conversation with The Los Angeles Times, Costner explained that embodying this hard man meant emphasizing a spiritual and emotional toughness that distinguishes this role from his portrayal of characters like John Dutton on Yellowstone.
Though Dutton’s actions stem from loyalty to family and promises, “Devil” Anse’s motivations are driven by a harsher, more ruthless worldview. Costner skillfully shows Anse wrestling with his Confederate war past while engaging in a brutal cycle of violence. An early scene depicts Anse encountering Jim Vance (played by Tom Berenger), who unflinchingly kills a captured Union soldier. Later, Anse’s refusal to release Randall McCoy’s sons after capturing them underscores the importance he places on his own sense of justice, rather than the law.
Costner excels in portraying the stoic but emotional weight of this character, embodying the spirit of rugged Western heroes that are a staple in his career. Alongside talented co-stars such as Matt Barr, Powers Boothe, Jena Malone, and Boyd Holbrook, Costner and Paxton form the core driving force behind the miniseries. Costner’s decision to feature in Hatfields & McCoys over other projects like Django Unchained highlights his commitment to telling this intense story of an untamed blood feud.
The Spiritual and Emotional Journey of ‘Devil’ Anse
One of the most compelling aspects of Costner’s performance is the portrayal of Anse’s evolution by the series’ end. Despite his hardened nature and willingness to shed blood, Anse experiences a spiritual awakening late in life. During a tense exchange with Randall McCoy, Anse reacts with anger to McCoy’s repeated references to God and divine justice, even drawing a gun on Jim Vance, a man who once saved his life during the war.
Following the climax of the feud that devastated families across Kentucky and West Virginia, Costner masterfully expresses the patriarch’s deep regret. Anse admits that
“the war spirit in me has abated,”
conveying a longing for peace after years of relentless conflict. He ultimately renounces his fearsome nickname by being baptized, symbolizing a spiritual transformation, though the sincerity of this change remains ambiguous.
The dynamic between Costner and Paxton is especially poignant, highlighting two men on divergent paths—one nearing repentance and the other consumed by vengeance. This contrast elevates Hatfields & McCoys beyond a simple retelling of historical events, adding emotional depth and complexity to the portrayal of the feud. The miniseries format, paired with Kevin Reynolds’s deliberate direction, allows the story’s full weight and nuance to unfold, showcasing Costner’s finest work as an emblematic Western figure.
Kevin Costner’s Musical Contributions to Enhance the Series
Beyond his acting, Kevin Costner also enriched the miniseries through music. His band, Kevin Costner & The Modern West, released an album titled Famous For Killing Each Other: Music From and Inspired by Hatfields & McCoys. The collection features “I Know These Hills,” the theme song from the series, and complements the dramatic tone of the story with a folksy, authentic sound. This musical effort demonstrates Costner’s dedication not only to embodying “Devil” Anse but also to crafting an immersive atmosphere for the entire production.
A Dramatic Retelling of a Legendary American Feud
Hatfields & McCoys traces the destructive rivalry between two Appalachian families during the post-Civil War era, highlighting how old grievances and land disputes ignited a brutal and long-lasting conflict. Set amid the rugged terrain of the Appalachian Mountains, the series vividly depicts the bitter animosities and personal vendettas that escalated into violence and tragedy for generations.
This miniseries offers a compelling window into a significant chapter of American history, capturing the human cost of feuds through powerful performances and careful storytelling. With Kevin Costner’s portrayal of “Devil” Anse Hatfield as the centerpiece, the show combines passionate intensity with moments of reflection on justice, family, and spirituality.
For viewers drawn to Western dramas rich in history and emotional depth, Hatfields & McCoys stands out as an essential watch. It is available for digital rental on Prime Video, allowing audiences to experience this engrossing saga at their own pace.
