“Yellowstone” star Kevin Costner has been named parade quarterback at this year’s Calgary Stampede.
The role belongs to someone who “exemplifies Western culture and tradition,” and organizers say the Academy’s winning actor and director fits perfectly.
“Yellowstone” is a modern western filmed in Montana currently in its fifth season. In a statement, the actor says he also has fond memories of filming “Open Range” and “Let Him Go” cowboy movies in Alberta.
His band, Kevin Costner & Modern West, will perform the day the stampede begins.
Officials have vowed to return to pre-pandemic shape this year after two years of reduced holidays.
Marshals from the 2020 and 2021 parade, Brazilian cowboy Filipe Masetti Leite and Katari right-hand man from the Siksika First Nation, will also attend this year’s stampede. The event is scheduled for July 8-17.
This report from The Canadian Press was first published on May 31, 2022.