Kevin Costner, once a celebrated figure in Hollywood, is now facing significant backlash due to a series of personal and professional missteps. According to a recent exposé by the Hollywood Reporter, his reputation has suffered dramatically as a result of alleged misconduct both on and off set, leading to a growing list of industry professionals who vow never to work with him again.
Reports indicate that Costner has been involved in various controversies, including accusations of failing to settle bills on time. A settled lawsuit revealed that he had amassed hundreds of thousands of dollars in unpaid costume fees, raising concerns about his financial reliability. Additionally, his tumultuous relationships with former friends and collaborators have come to light, most notably when he pursued a lawsuit against his long-time friend and producing partner for $15 million.
On-set behavior has also contributed to Costner’s declining reputation. He famously ignored the advice of director Steven Spielberg regarding the ill-fated film Waterworld. Several industry insiders have claimed that he frequently rewrote scripts without prior notice, often clashing with directors and co-stars. Notable confrontations include an incident with Wes Bentley, a co-star from the acclaimed series Yellowstone. During a heated exchange, Costner allegedly pushed Bentley to abandon a scene written by creator Taylor Sheridan in favor of his own interpretation. Bentley resisted, asserting that he had signed on for a Sheridan project, not a Costner-led production. Sources describe a tense moment where the two were nearly in a physical altercation, requiring intervention from others on set.
Reflecting on his time with Costner, former agent Rick Nicita characterized him as “difficult” but clarified that this does not equate to being unprofessional or unprepared. Nicita noted, “He wanted what he wanted and knew what he wanted, and if he didn’t get it… well, he was never a great compromiser.” This steadfastness, while admirable to some, has contributed to perceptions of arrogance.
Costner’s recent projects have not fared well either. His latest film, Horizon, saw a dismal performance at the box office, resulting in substantial financial losses for him personally. The film’s sequel has since been removed from the release calendar, and plans for additional films have been postponed indefinitely.
Despite these challenges, Costner has continued to pursue funding for his projects. Insiders suggest that his relentless drive has turned him into a figure of ridicule within Hollywood circles. One source lamented, “It’s sad, and that’s the only thing I can think of. I think he got lost in the ether and to this day, I just don’t get it.”
With his career faltering, Costner has turned to alternative ventures, including giving paid keynote speeches at various conventions. This shift marks a stark contrast to his earlier days as one of the film industry’s most bankable stars.
As Costner navigates this turbulent chapter in his career, it remains to be seen how he will rebuild his reputation and whether he can regain his former status in Hollywood.
