Movies - TV
Kevin Costner Almost Killed Tombstone Before Production Could Even Begin
By JEFF KELLY
One common trend in Hollywood, known as Twin Films, is when multiple movies debut quickly and deal with similar subjects, such as “Armageddon” and “Deep Impact.” The 1993 Western “Tombstone” found itself in competition against “Wyatt Earp,” a film that nearly ended its production thanks to the latter’s star, Kevin Costner.
The actor brought significant star power and was no stranger to the genre, having films like “Dances With Wolves” under his belt, which left many to expect Costner’s role in “Wyatt Earp” to be the definitive take on the legendary lawman. The studio producing “Tombstone” was unconvinced those working on the film could find a star to compete with Costner to make it worthwhile.
Luckily, the “Tombstone” script found its way to Kurt Russell, who expressed interest in the part, restoring faith in the film that would later become a modern classic. Ironically, “Tombstone” screenwriter Kevin Jarre revealed that he wanted Costner for the role, but the actor turned it down to do the Wyatt Earp mini-series that would eventually become the twin film.