What role did Kevin Costner's son Hayes Costner play in Horizon: An American Saga - Chapter 1? Details explored 

Hayes Costner plays a key role in 2024’s Horizon: An American Saga - Chapter 1, directed by his father and iconic actor, Kevin Costner. The film had reportedly been years in the making. As stated by the JFK star himself, he had been trying to get his idea commissioned for over three decades. Finally, he brought it to the screens through his 2024 film, which acts as the first chapter of a longer saga.

It initially premiered at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival and was later theatrically released in the United States. The second chapter of Kevin Costner's epic western has been filmed and was premiered at the 2024 Venice International Film Festival. However, the theatrical release date has not been confirmed yet. It is expected to be released in 2025.

Set in the 19th century, the film follows multiple storylines. It shows the predominant conflicts from the years following 1859 and the struggle for survival of people who lived through it around a town named Horizon.

Kevin Costner helms this project and plays horse trader Hayes Ellison. Besides him, the film also stars his son, Hayes Costner, in an important role and appears for a short time. Let’s find out what his role entails.

Who does Hayes Costner play in Horizon: An American Saga - Chapter 1?

With Horizon: An American Saga, actor Kevin Costner brings his passion project to life. However, he is not the only Costner family member involved in the film. His son, Hayes, marks his acting debut in the first film. He plays Nathaniel Kitteredge, the son of Sienna Miller’s character, Horizon-resident homesteader Frances.

In the film, Hayes is also referred to as ‘Nat’ as he is 15 years old. He only makes a small appearance in this epic film but leaves a mark with his cameo. Despite his young age, he stands up to an older boy who pokes fun at him. Nat refuses to act according to their will and shows his courageous side.

Unfortunately, Hayes’ character faces a tragic fate against the opposing forces that attack their family. Even then, he chooses to be brave and defend his family against all the odds. He puts his life at risk to protect his family members despite his father’s potential lack of hope. Nathaniel becomes the beacon of hope for his family as he shields them in this difficult situation.

Kevin Costner reacted to Hayes Costner’s performance: Details explored

Kevin Costner, who cast his young son in Horizon: An American Saga- Chapter 1, spoke about his decision during an interview in 2024. He mentioned his working experience with young Hayes. Besides, he revealed that he did not push Hayes to enter the acting field.

While the veteran actor was happy with his son’s performance, he acknowledged the discussions related to nepotism and addressed the same. He said:

"I realize there (are) so many young actors out there that would just kill to be in this movie. I don’t want to take those parts away from them just because I can place my own children in...But since it was a smaller part, I selfishly wanted him with me. For the two weeks that he was with me, we would drive to the set every day and he would whisper. He didn’t have a lot of experience, but he’s really beautiful in the movie".

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In May 2024, Kevin spoke about what might seem like a coincidence. Kevin’s Horizon character shares its first name with his son. So, he referred back to his struggle to get the film series made since 1988 and said:

"I couldn’t fall out of love with Hayes (the character)... So, I just named my son Hayes because I couldn’t let go of it (Kevin’s idea behind Horizon). And then, all of a sudden, I put him in the movie."

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