Kevin Costner Discusses Strong Female Characters in His New Western Saga

In a recent appearance on the “Happy Sad Confused” podcast, Kevin Costner joined his “Horizon: An American Saga” cast to discuss the unique approach of his new four-movie Western saga. Costner shared insights on how this saga sets itself apart by placing strong female characters at the heart of its storylines.

Kevin Costner, known for his iconic roles and directorial efforts in Western films, revealed that "Horizon: An American Saga" differs from many traditional Westerns due to its focus on women driving the story. Costner, who co-wrote the franchise with Jon Baird, emphasized the importance of female characters in the narrative, stating, "I couldn’t conceive of a scene that didn’t involve a woman" while shaping the story.

“Horizon” follows the journey of several characters during and after the Civil War as they settle the American West. Costner stars in the film alongside a star-studded cast, including Sienna Miller, Jena Malone, Isabelle Fuhrman, Abbey Lee, and Ella Hunt. Despite acknowledging that his directorial efforts often appeal more to men, Costner emphasized that strong female characters are central to his storytelling approach.

“I make movies for men. That’s what I do,” Costner said during the podcast. “But I won’t make a movie unless I have strong women characters. That’s how I’ve conducted my career. I think that’s why I have a good following. I thank you women for dragging your men here. It was a Western after all. I just can’t conceive of a movie without having strong women.”

Costner also expanded on the importance of female perspectives in “Horizon” during an appearance on “The Kelly Clarkson Show” earlier this month. He highlighted the significant yet often overlooked role women played in the West’s history. “Women were often taken out there against their will and with their children on the idea that there was something great out there,” Costner explained. “They were dragged into the most terrible of circumstances and made it work. And somehow they don’t find themselves in Westerns and in ‘Horizon’ they dominate.”

The first movie of the “Horizon” saga opens in theaters on June 28 from Warner Bros., with the second film following on August 16. Costner’s directorial portfolio also includes acclaimed films like “Dances With Wolves,” for which he won best picture and best director Oscars, “The Postman,” and “Open Range.”

Kevin Costner’s new Western saga, “Horizon: An American Saga,” promises to deliver compelling stories with strong female characters at the forefront. As Costner continues to push the boundaries of traditional Western narratives, audiences can look forward to a refreshing and inclusive perspective on the American West. Don’t miss the first installment in theaters on June 28!

Watch the full “Happy Sad Confused” podcast with Kevin Costner and the “Horizon” cast in the video linked below.

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