Is Kurt Russell's moustache real in Tombstone?

Yes, Kurt Russell's moustache in Tombstone is real. He grew it out specifically for his role as Wyatt Earp.

Why is Doc Holliday always sweating in the movie?

Doc Holliday's constant sweating in the film is a depiction of his struggle with tuberculosis, a disease he was known to have in real life.

Who directed Tombstone?

The film was directed by George P. Cosmatos, although Kurt Russell is said to have had a significant uncredited role in the direction as well.

Is Tombstone historically accurate?

While Tombstone takes some creative liberties with the historical events and characters it portrays, it is generally considered to be a relatively accurate representation of the gunfight at the O.K. Corral and the subsequent events. However, some historical inaccuracies have been noted, such as the timeline of events and the portrayal of certain characters.

Why wasn't Kevin Costner in Tombstone?

Kevin Costner was originally offered the role of Wyatt Earp in Tombstone, but he turned it down to work on his own film, Wyatt Earp, which was released the following year.

Then vs Now Movies

Tombstone (1993) Cast Then and Now in 2024 - What do the rugged lawmen look like now?

Tombstone endures as a timeless Western classic. Viewers stumbling upon it are instantly captivated by its stellar ensemble cast. The actors' powerful performances spark curiosity about their careers, from the film's debut to today.

Tombstone Cast Updated

Tombstone is a classic western film released in 1993 that tells the gripping story of the legendary gunfight at the O.K. Corral in Tombstone, Arizona. The movie depicts the events surrounding the Earp brothers, Wyatt, Virgil, and Morgan, as they face off against the notorious outlaw gang led by the likes of Curly Bill Brocius and Johnny Ringo. With its stellar cast and memorable performances, Tombstone has become a beloved film for Western enthusiasts.

Overview of the Cast: Then and Now

When Tombstone hit theatres in 1993, it featured an ensemble cast of talented actors who brought the characters to life with their exceptional performances. Let's take a look at where these stars are now, over three decades later.

Kurt Russell (Wyatt Earp)

Then (1993): Kurt Russell was already a well-known star when he took on the role of the fearless lawman, Wyatt Earp. His rugged charm and commanding presence brought Wyatt Earp to life in a way that resonated with viewers.

Now (2024): Russell, now 73, continues to be a prominent figure in Hollywood, taking on various roles that showcase his versatility as an actor. Notable recent appearances include his turn as Ego in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 and as Santa Claus in the Christmas Chronicles series. Off-screen, he's known for his long-term relationship with Goldie Hawn and his passion for winemaking at his California vineyard.

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Did you know? Kurt Russell was also heavily involved behind the scenes of Tombstone, reportedly taking over much of the directing when the original director, Kevin Jarre, was fired. This uncredited contribution is often cited as one of the reasons for the film's success.

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Val Kilmer (Doc Holliday)

Then (1993): Val Kilmer's performance as the consumptive gambler and legendary gunslinger, Doc Holliday, was nothing short of extraordinary. His portrayal earned him critical acclaim, and his memorable one-liners have become iconic.

Now (2024): Kilmer, now 64, has faced health challenges in recent years, including a battle with throat cancer. However, he triumphantly returned as Iceman in 2022's Top Gun: Maverick, earning praise for his emotional performance. Despite his health issues, Kilmer remains an immensely talented actor who has certainly shaped the film industry.

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Trivia: Val Kilmer underwent intense preparation for his role as Doc Holliday, losing weight and studying the character's history extensively. His dedication to the role is evident in every scene he steals.

Sam Elliott (Virgil Earp)

Then (1993): Sam Elliott's portrayal of Virgil Earp, the older brother of Wyatt and a respected lawman, showcased his remarkable acting prowess. Elliott's deep, resonant voice and distinctive moustache added a layer of authenticity to the character.

Now (2024): Elliott, now 79, has continued to excel in his craft, appearing in numerous films and television shows, often embodying rugged, no-nonsense characters. He has become an emblem of the Western genre, with notable roles in The Big Lebowski, A Star is Born, and the TV series The Ranch. His distinctive voice also makes him a sought-after narrator.

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Fun Fact: Sam Elliott's moustache is almost as famous as he is, with many of his roles featuring his iconic facial hair. It's become a symbol of his persona both on and off-screen.

Bill Paxton (Morgan Earp)

Then (1993): Bill Paxton's portrayal of Morgan Earp, the younger brother of Wyatt, brought a sense of youthful energy and charisma to the character. His performance was both heartfelt and compelling, earning him praise from critics and audiences alike.

Now: Sadly, Paxton passed away on February 25, 2017, at the age of 61. Before his untimely death, he continued to enjoy a successful career, starring in hits like Twister, Apollo 13, and Titanic. His legacy lives on through his memorable performances and the lasting impact he had on Hollywood.

Legacy: Beyond acting, Paxton was also a skilled director. His film Frailty, which he directed and starred in, is considered a cult classic in the horror genre.

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Powers Boothe (Curly Bill Brocius)

Then (1993): Powers Boothe's portrayal of Curly Bill Brocius, the ruthless outlaw leader, was menacing and memorable. Boothe's commanding presence and intense performance added a palpable sense of danger to the film.

Now: Boothe passed away on May 14, 2017, at the age of 68. Before his passing, he had a successful career spanning several decades, leaving behind a legacy of remarkable performances in films and television series like Sin City and Deadwood.

Michael Biehn (Johnny Ringo)

Then (1993): Michael Biehn's portrayal of Johnny Ringo, the skilled gunslinger and antagonist of the film, was chilling and intense. Biehn's ability to embody the cold-hearted nature of the character made him a formidable presence on screen.

Now (2024): Biehn, now 67, has continued to work steadily in film and television, often in roles that capitalise on his ability to play complex, sometimes troubled characters. His recent work includes appearances in The Mandalorian and The Walking Dead.

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Insight: Michael Biehn almost didn't take the role of Johnny Ringo. He initially turned it down, but after reading the script, he realised the potential of the character and changed his mind.

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Dana Delany (Josephine Marcus)

Then (1993): Dana Delany's portrayal of Josephine Marcus, a love interest for Wyatt Earp, brought a touch of elegance and grace to the film. Her chemistry with Kurt Russell was undeniable.

Now (2024): Delany, now 68, has since continued to thrive in her career, starring in various television shows and films. She's known for her roles in series like Desperate Housewives and Body of Proof.

Charlton Heston (Henry Hooker)

Then (1993): Charlton Heston's cameo appearance as Henry Hooker, a rancher and ally to the Earp brothers, added a sense of gravitas to Tombstone. Even in this brief role, Heston's commanding presence and iconic voice lent weight to the character, showcasing why he was one of Hollywood's most respected actors.

Now: Heston passed away on April 5, 2008, at the age of 84. However, his legacy as a Hollywood icon endures, remembered for his monumental contributions to cinema spanning over six decades.

Career Highlights:

Epic Roles: Heston is best known for his powerful performances in epic films, including his Oscar-winning role as Judah Ben-Hur in Ben-Hur (1959), Moses in The Ten Commandments (1956), and Michelangelo in The Agony and the Ecstasy (1965).
Science Fiction Icon: He starred in several influential sci-fi films, most notably as astronaut George Taylor in Planet of the Apes (1968) and Robert Neville in The Omega Man (1971).
Historical Figures: Throughout his career, Heston portrayed numerous historical figures, including John the Baptist in The Greatest Story Ever Told (1965), Cardinal Richelieu in The Three Musketeers (1973), and Andrew Jackson in The President's Lady (1953) and The Buccaneer (1958).
Directorial Ventures: Heston directed and starred in Antony and Cleopatra (1972) and Mother Lode (1982).

Awards and Recognition:

Academy Award for Best Actor for Ben-Hur (1959)
Cecil B. DeMille Award at the Golden Globes (1967)
Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award at the Academy Awards (1978)
Kennedy Center Honor (1997)
Presidential Medal of Freedom (2003)

Cultural Impact:

Heston's commanding presence and distinctive voice made him the quintessential Hollywood leading man for decades.
His portrayal of Moses in The Ten Commandments has become iconic, with the film a perennial television favorite.
The phrase "Get your paws off me, you damn dirty ape!" from Planet of the Apes is one of the most famous movie quotes of all time.

Later Career and Activism:

In his later years, Heston took on character roles in films like True Lies (1994) and Any Given Sunday (1999).
He was a prominent political activist, initially supporting civil rights causes before becoming known for his conservative views and his presidency of the National Rifle Association from 1998 to 2003.

Legacy:
Charlton Heston's career spanned the golden age of Hollywood and beyond. He was known for his larger-than-life heroic roles, his distinctive voice, and his ability to bring gravitas to historical and biblical characters. His films continue to be celebrated for their epic scale and his powerful performances. Even in smaller roles like his appearance in Tombstone, Heston's presence added a touch of classic Hollywood grandeur. His influence on cinema and popular culture remains significant, with his most famous roles continuing to be referenced and celebrated in contemporary media.

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Jason Priestley (Billy Breckinridge)

Then (1993): Jason Priestley's portrayal of Billy Breckinridge, a young lawman, showcased his talent as an actor beyond his well-known television role in Beverly Hills, 90210.

Now (2024): Priestley, now 54, has continued to work in the entertainment industry, taking on various roles both in front of and behind the camera. He's directed episodes of several TV series and continues to act in both film and television.

Billy Zane (Mr. Fabian)

Then (1993): Billy Zane's portrayal of Mr. Fabian, a theatre owner, added a touch of charm and sophistication to the film. Zane's character provided moments of levity amidst the intense action and drama.

Now (2024): Zane, now 58, has maintained a successful career, appearing in numerous films and television shows, showcasing his versatility as an actor. He's best known for his role as Caledon Hockley in James Cameron's Titanic (1997), which remains one of the highest-grossing films of all time. In recent years, Zane has taken on diverse roles in both mainstream and independent productions. He appeared in the DC Comics series Legends of Tomorrow and had a recurring role in the thriller series Curfew. Zane has also ventured into production, working on various film and television projects.

Billy Bob Thornton (Johnny Tyler)

Then (1993): Billy Bob Thornton's portrayal of Johnny Tyler, a troublemaking cowboy, left a lasting impression despite his limited screen time. This role came early in Thornton's career, just as he was beginning to make a name for himself in Hollywood.

Now (2024): Thornton, now 68, has become one of the most versatile and acclaimed figures in the entertainment industry. His career spans acting, writing, directing, and even music, showcasing his multifaceted talents.

Career Highlights:

Oscar Success: Thornton wrote, directed, and starred in Sling Blade (1996), which earned him an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay and a nomination for Best Actor.
Directorial Ventures: He's directed several films, including All the Pretty Horses (2000) and Jayne Mansfield's Car (2012).
Iconic Roles: Thornton has delivered memorable performances in films such as A Simple Plan (1998), Monster's Ball (2001), and Bad Santa (2003).
Television Triumphs: He won critical acclaim and a Golden Globe for his role in the FX series Fargo (2014) and starred in the Amazon series Goliath (2016-2021).
Musical Career: Thornton is also a musician, having released several albums with his band The Boxmasters.

Awards and Recognition:

In addition to his Oscar, Thornton has won numerous awards including Golden Globes, an Emmy, and a National Board of Review Award.
He received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2004.

Recent Work:

Thornton continues to take on challenging and diverse roles. He starred in and executive produced all four seasons of the legal drama Goliath.
He appeared in the critically acclaimed film A Million Little Pieces (2018) and had a role in the Netflix film The Gray Man (2022) alongside Ryan Gosling and Chris Evans.

Legacy:
Thornton's career trajectory since his small role in Tombstone is a testament to his extraordinary talent and versatility. He's known for his ability to disappear into roles, his distinctive voice, and his knack for bringing complex characters to life. Whether in drama, comedy, or thriller, Thornton is widely regarded in the industry.

Thomas Haden Church (Billy Clanton)

Then (1993): Thomas Haden Church's portrayal of Billy Clanton, one of the members of the notorious outlaw gang, was convincingly menacing.

Now (2024): Church, now 63, has continued to establish himself as a versatile actor, earning critical acclaim for his roles in various films and television series. He received an Oscar nomination for his performance in Sideways and starred in Spider-Man 3.

Stephen Lang (Ike Clanton)

Then (1993): Stephen Lang's portrayal of Ike Clanton, the leader of the outlaw gang, added a sense of cunning and ruthlessness to the film.

Now (2024): Lang, now 71, has enjoyed a successful career, appearing in a wide range of projects and earning praise for his versatile acting abilities. He's particularly known for his role as Colonel Miles Quaritch in James Cameron's Avatar series.

Michael Rooker (Sherman McMasters)

Then (1993): Michael Rooker played the role of Sherman McMasters, showcasing his versatile acting skills.

Now (2024): Rooker, now 69, has appeared in various films and TV shows. He is particularly known for his role as Yondu Udonta in the Marvel Cinematic Universe's Guardians of the Galaxy series and his appearance in The Walking Dead.

What do the cast of Tremors look like now?

The cast of Tombstone brought to life one of the most iconic Western tales in cinematic history. Their performances, coupled with the film's direction and screenplay, created a movie that continues to captivate audiences today. As we look back on the film and its cast, we're reminded of the enduring power of great storytelling and unforgettable characters.

Whether you're a long-time fan or discovering Tombstone for the first time, the film's legacy and the careers of its cast members offer a fascinating glimpse into Hollywood history and the evolution of the Western genre.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Kurt Russell's moustache real in Tombstone? Yes, Kurt Russell's moustache in Tombstone is real. He grew it out specifically for his role as Wyatt Earp.
Why is Doc Holliday always sweating in the movie? Doc Holliday's constant sweating in the film is a depiction of his struggle with tuberculosis, a disease he was known to have in real life.
Who directed Tombstone? The film was directed by George P. Cosmatos, although Kurt Russell is said to have had a significant uncredited role in the direction as well.
Is Tombstone historically accurate? While Tombstone takes some creative liberties with the historical events and characters it portrays, it is generally considered to be a relatively accurate representation of the gunfight at the O.K. Corral and the subsequent events. However, some historical inaccuracies have been noted, such as the timeline of events and the portrayal of certain characters.
Why wasn't Kevin Costner in Tombstone? Kevin Costner was originally offered the role of Wyatt Earp in Tombstone, but he turned it down to work on his own film, Wyatt Earp, which was released the following year.

Tombstone (1993) Cast Then and Now in 2024 - What do the rugged lawmen look like now?