I choose to believe’: Kevin Costner reflects on faith and hosting a Nativity special

Kevin Costner felt it was “appropriate” that he host a special about the birth of Jesus Christ.Costner has rarely spoken publicly about his religious beliefs, but the people who are close to the “Yellowstone” actor understand the important role faith has played in his life from the time he was a child, he said.Decades before the award-winning actor became a household name, Costner gave his first performance in his church’s annual nativity play. He recalls being cast as a shepherd at about 4 years old, and giving just a single line — “Hark.”

Now, more than four decades into his Hollywood career, Costner is returning to the Nativity story as the host of the upcoming ABC special, “Kevin Costner Presents: The First Christmas.”“I was raised in a church. I haven’t probably proclaimed that to the world, but anybody who knows me, knows that,” Costner said. “It’s been so much a part of my life — religion that has spread around this world.”He added, “I’ve been a part of all kinds of stories, but to be able to narrate the birth of Christ, it seemed appropriate to me, given my history with the church.”Costner is best known for his streak of hit movies during the ’80s and ’90s, including “Field of Dreams,” “Silverado,” “The Bodyguard” and “Dance with Wolves” — which earned the actor Academy Awards for best picture and best director.The 70-year-old actor has recently found success starring on the Paramount hit series, “Yellowstone,” for four and a half seasons before leaving to head his own Western film saga, “Horizon.”The two-hour ABC special, “Kevin Costner Presents: The First Christmas,” offers a thoughtful, reverent retelling of the Nativity story blended with Costner’s narration — which provides a personal touch. The special centers on Mary and Joseph’s experiences, tracing their trials and devotion as they make the humble journey that leads to the birth of Christ.