Kevin Costner Thrilled to Cast Son Hayes in Latest Film
There's nothing quite like seeing family come together in the world of movies, and that's exactly what happened when Kevin Costner decided to cast his son Hayes in his latest film, Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 1. The decision allowed Hayes, a teenager, to step into the spotlight and learn the ropes from one of Hollywood's most iconic figures—his dad. The experience wasn’t just about acting; it was about bonding and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
At the film's Los Angeles premiere on Monday, June 24, Hayes, 15, opened up to Entertainment Tonight about what it was like working alongside his famous father. "He trapped me," Hayes joked, adding, "I got to spend the whole day with him every day and just see him work. It was such an incredible experience. I had such a blast." Hayes wasn’t just there for the ride; he was fully immersed in the process, soaking up every moment of the set life and learning from one of the best in the business.
An Experience to Remember
Hayes went on to explain how this opportunity was more than just a job; it was a chance to witness his dad's hard work up close. "I just thought it was really cool and it was an amazing experience," Hayes said. "I was so proud of my dad. He’s been working so long, and to see him in that moment—it was unforgettable." For Hayes, it wasn't just about the acting; it was about appreciating the dedication and passion his father has poured into his career over the years.
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Kevin, now 69, shares Hayes with his ex-wife, Christine Baumgartner, along with two other children, Cayden and Grace. But Kevin's family extends beyond this trio—he’s also a dad to Annie, Lily, Joe, and Liam from previous relationships. On the night of the premiere, Annie, 40, Joe, 36, Cayden, 17, and Grace, 14, all joined their father and Hayes on the red carpet, showing their unwavering support for the family project.
Cannes Film Festival Success
The support didn’t stop at Los Angeles. Just a month earlier, Kevin’s kids were right by his side at the Cannes Film Festival, where Horizon made its international debut. The film was met with an 11-minute standing ovation, leaving the Oscar-winning actor visibly emotional. Tears welled up in his eyes as he soaked in the overwhelming response from the audience.
"I got emotional and my children were there," Kevin recalled. "I had five of my children with me—two of my boys in tuxes and my three little girls all dressed up. They were watching too, and they got a little startled by it. My son had never seen me be that emotional." It was a moment that not only highlighted Kevin’s success but also strengthened the bond between him and his family.

A Role for Hayes
Kevin recently opened up about casting Hayes in the movie, despite the fact that his son had no prior acting experience. "He’s a beautiful boy, and he’s quiet," the director of Dances With Wolves said while appearing on Today on June 17. "I haven’t shoved my children into the business. 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 it."
However, Kevin decided that Hayes could take on a smaller role. "In a sense, it was a smaller part. I selfishly wanted him with me for the week or two that he was there. 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," Kevin added. It wasn’t just about giving Hayes a part—it was about spending time together and creating a meaningful experience.
Family Support
Hayes wasn’t the only family member to make an appearance in Horizon. Kevin revealed that another one of his sons also took part in the film. "My oldest son was in a scene in Chapter 2, and it was a small part again," the Yellowstone star told Fox News Digital in an interview on Monday, adding, "They’re all supportive of each other." Kevin joked that he likes to "trap" his kids into being part of his projects, but there’s clearly a lot of love and support behind it all.
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Proud of Hayes
Kevin is incredibly proud of Hayes for stepping out of his comfort zone and taking part in the film. "That he did it, that he was good in it, that he listened, that he was worried, that he cared—I’m just so happy that he has that now the rest of his life," Kevin gushed. "I haven’t pushed my children into this, and this might be his only dabble in it, but he’s memorable. And for me to have him, I’ll never forget it."

