Kevin Costner discusses retirement and future plans at 70, making it clear that he has no intention of stepping away from Hollywood or slowing down, even as he reaches this milestone age. The actor-director has recently shared insights into his career, creativity, and the challenges that surround his current work, all while navigating both professional successes and legal controversies.
Costner’s Creative Passion Continues Undiminished
At 70, Kevin Costner insists that retirement is not on his mind, emphasizing that his imagination and enthusiasm for storytelling remain as strong as ever. With a storied history in cinema, Costner is currently channeling his energy into “Horizon: An American Saga,” which he considers a deeply personal endeavor and a showcase for his creative ambition.
The “Yellowstone” star insists there is much he still wants to accomplish, treating age as merely a number while continuing to shape a lasting legacy. In recent interviews, including one with PEOPLE Magazine, Costner has described how his ongoing inspiration and drive impact his choices in the industry.
I don’t even think about retiring, because I’ll just move to the next thing that captures my imagination,
—Kevin Costner, Actor and Filmmaker
This creative outlook, according to Costner, roots his decision-making and career path firmly in personal motivation rather than external pressures.
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, Actor and Filmmaker
He further reflected on the individual journey each person experiences, highlighting his gratitude for the opportunities he’s received along the way.
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, Actor and Filmmaker
Looking Ahead: No Signs of Slowing Down
In a career spanning multiple decades since his 1980s debut in “Sizzle Beach,” Kevin Costner has collected numerous awards and accolades, establishing himself as a central figure in Hollywood. Despite this, he continues to look forward, displaying genuine excitement about the road ahead and making it clear that his curiosity about future projects remains strong.
Addressing his mindset on future ambitions, Costner explained that he does not keep a traditional bucket list but stays open to new possibilities that stir his excitement and leave an enduring mark.
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, Actor and Filmmaker
For Costner, fulfillment comes from pursuing ventures that are meaningful to him and potentially to others, seeking satisfaction through both personal purpose and the positive impact his work can have.
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, Actor and Filmmaker
Embracing Future Adventures and Creative Possibilities
Kevin Costner has spoken before about his attitude toward the second act of his career, sharing in a 2019 AARP interview that the best may be yet to come. He has expressed optimism about the surprises and projects awaiting him, making it clear that his creative writing and ambitions are ongoing and thriving.
I really feel like some of the great surprises I have are in front of me,
—Kevin Costner, Actor and Filmmaker
Even as he continues to balance his professional achievements, Costner has highlighted that films, while important, constitute only part of his life.
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, Actor and Filmmaker
Outside of movie sets, Costner maintains a life full of other pursuits and experiences, stepping into film roles intermittently as part of a broader journey.
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, Actor and Filmmaker
Legal Controversies Surrounding New Film Projects
Recent discussions about Kevin Costner’s career direction occur against the backdrop of legal turmoil linked to the production of “Horizon: An American Saga.” Devyn LaBella, a stunt performer, has filed a lawsuit alleging an incident during the filming of the sequel installment, which has brought additional attention to the high-profile project and to Costner himself.
LaBella has alleged that in May 2023, she was subjected to a non-consensual and unscripted rape scene on set, highlighting the absence of an intimacy coordinator and the contract requirements for actress Ella Hunt, whom she stood in for. The claim includes concerns over inadequate safety protocols and communication regarding her role in an “aggressive and intimate rape scene,” which she was asked to perform due to the physical nature of the moment.
scripted, aggressive and intimate rape scene
—Devyn LaBella, Stunt Performer
Details and Impact of the Alleged Incident
According to court documents, Devyn LaBella described being shocked when the following day, Kevin Costner allegedly included a new scene requiring Roger Ivens, another actor, to become physically involved with her stand-in assignment for Ella Hunt.
climb on top of Ms Hunt, violently raking up her skirt.
—Devyn LaBella, Stunt Performer (attribution per case filing)
When Hunt declined to perform the scene, LaBella states she was instructed to substitute without the appropriate oversight or her express consent. Despite her role as a stunt double, she claims the actions required of her exceeded what was originally agreed to. As a result, she has reported ongoing emotional distress linked to the experience.
shame, humiliation, and complete lack of control.
—Devyn LaBella, Stunt Performer
With these legal claims now part of public record, the attention around “Horizon: An American Saga” has intensified, casting a shadow over its production and adding another complex layer to Costner’s current professional landscape.
Looking Forward: The Path Ahead for Costner
As Kevin Costner discusses retirement and future plans at 70, he faces both creative triumphs and the challenges of legal controversy. His continued drive, reflected in ongoing projects, signals that he remains committed to storytelling and cinematic innovation. However, the unfolding lawsuit and allegations regarding “Horizon: An American Saga” serve as reminders of the scrutiny that can accompany high-profile success in the entertainment world. Costner’s future endeavors will not only depend on his own imagination, but also on how these allegations and their outcomes influence his career moving forward.
