Kevin Costner’s latest project, Horizon: An American Saga, marks a special family collaboration, as his son Hayes Logan Costner had a small but significant role in the film. Released in two parts, with Chapter 1 premiering on June 28 and Chapter 2 scheduled for August 16, Horizon is a Western epic in which Costner stars, writes, produces, and directs. During an appearance on TODAY with Hoda & Jenna on June 20, Costner opened up about the unique experience of working with his 15-year-old son.
Costner mentioned that Hayes had not grown up wanting to be an actor, and he hadn’t pushed any of his children toward the profession. However, Hayes’ role in Horizon offered the father-son duo a chance to bond on set. Costner reflected on their daily drives to and from the set, recalling how Hayes would ask him, “How did I do today?” and Costner would reassure him with “You did good.” Despite being inexperienced, Hayes performed well in the role, leaving Costner proud of his son’s work.
Why Did Kevin Costner Choose to Cast His Son in a Minor Role?
Costner revealed during a June 17 appearance on TODAY that Hayes’ role in Horizon came about because it was a small part, and he did not feel it would take opportunities away from aspiring young actors. Though he had not “shoved” his children into the entertainment business, he felt that Hayes’ minor role in the film would be a way to spend time together without infringing on the chances of other actors.
Costner admitted that he selfishly wanted Hayes by his side on set for a couple of weeks, which made the experience even more meaningful. Hayes’ scene was described as “complicated,” but Costner was impressed with his son’s performance, stating that Hayes did beautifully in the film. He even named the lead character in the movie after Hayes, further highlighting the personal connection they shared during the project.
What Was the Reaction to the Premiere of “Horizon: An American Saga” at Cannes?
The film premiered at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival on May 19, where Kevin Costner received a standing ovation. During an interview on Dax Shepard’s Armchair Expert podcast, Costner shared how emotional he felt at the moment, especially with his family in attendance. All five of his children were present, and the sight of them all dressed up and looking at him left Costner overwhelmed with pride.
Costner’s children from different stages of his life, including Hayes, were part of the Cannes experience. It was a moment that brought his family together to celebrate not just his professional achievements but also the personal milestone of having his son participate in the project.
Who Are Kevin Costner’s Children and What Are Their Careers?
Kevin Costner has seven children from different relationships, ranging in age from 14 to 40. Here’s a closer look at each of his children and what they do:
Annie Costner
Annie Costner is Kevin Costner’s oldest child, born in 1984 to Costner and his first wife, Cindy Silva. She has followed in her father’s footsteps by pursuing a career in the entertainment industry. Annie has credits as an actor, director, and producer and co-founded the production company Sound Off Films in 2014. She appeared in some of her father’s films, such as Dances with Wolves and The Postman, but is now primarily focused on behind-the-camera work.
Lily Costner
Lily Costner, born in 1986, is Kevin Costner’s second child with Cindy Silva. Like her sister, she has dabbled in acting, but her true passion lies in music. Lily has contributed vocals to several of her father’s films, including Black or White and 3000 Miles to Graceland. Kevin has praised Lily’s talent as a singer-songwriter, and the two collaborated on the song “Heaven’s Gate” for Costner’s 2020 album Tales of Yellowstone.
Joe Costner
Joe Costner, born in 1988, is the youngest child from Kevin’s marriage to Cindy Silva. Joe has also been involved in the entertainment industry, appearing in The Postman alongside his sisters and in his father’s 1996 film Tin Cup. However, Joe has pursued a career in music and owns Spartan Recording, a mobile recording studio.
Liam Costner
Liam Costner, born in 1996, is Kevin Costner’s son from his relationship with Bridget Rooney, who is the granddaughter of Pittsburgh Steelers founder Art Rooney. Despite staying out of the limelight, Liam’s financial standing is bolstered by his connections to both the Costner and Rooney families. As the grandson of Art Rooney, the founder of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Liam has ties to significant family wealth. While he hasn’t pursued a public career in entertainment like his siblings, his net worth is estimated to be around $1 million to $5 million, largely due to family inheritance and investments.
Cayden Wyatt Costner
Cayden Wyatt Costner, born in 2007, is Kevin’s first child with his second wife, Christine Baumgartner. Kevin has spoken fondly of Cayden’s role as an older brother, praising him for being caring and responsible. As Cayden grows older, Costner has expressed his commitment to being present for his younger children, despite acknowledging the realities of being an older father.
Hayes Logan Costner
Hayes Logan Costner, born in 2009, is the second of Kevin’s three children with Christine Baumgartner. Hayes is an athlete, according to his father, and has been involved in Little League games. His role in Horizon: An American Saga marks his acting debut, though Kevin has emphasized that Hayes is not necessarily interested in pursuing acting as a career. Nonetheless, his work in the film demonstrates his willingness to step into his father’s world for a brief period.
Grace Avery Costner
Grace Avery Costner, born in 2010, is Kevin’s youngest child. Kevin has described Grace as a “girly girl” who enjoys more traditionally feminine activities. Despite being the youngest, she is part of a close-knit family dynamic, with Kevin and Christine ensuring that their three children grow up with strong sibling relationships.
How Has Fatherhood Shaped Kevin Costner’s Life?
Kevin Costner has often spoken about how much fatherhood means to him. Despite the challenges of balancing a demanding career and a large family, Costner has always made time for his children. In a 2022 interview with People, Costner shared that he strives to be an engaged parent by getting down on the ground and playing with his kids, while also encouraging them to become independent. He recognizes the bittersweet nature of raising children, as they eventually grow up and forge their own paths.
Costner’s seven children, who span a range of ages, have all had different experiences growing up, but it is clear that their father has remained a constant presence in their lives. Whether attending Little League games, collaborating on film projects, or simply being there for family moments, Costner’s dedication to his children is a core aspect of his life.
What’s Next for Kevin Costner and His Family?
As Kevin Costner continues to promote Horizon: An American Saga, his family remains a central part of his life. While his younger children, such as Hayes and Grace, are still growing up, his older children have begun to carve out their own paths in life. Whether pursuing music, acting, or staying behind the scenes, Costner’s children have the freedom to pursue their passions without feeling pressured by their father’s legacy.
In the coming years, it will be interesting to see how the Costner family continues to navigate life in the public eye, all while maintaining the strong bonds they have built both on and off the screen.
