5 horseback riding actors that helped shape entertainment

Horses and their riders have always played a significant role in the history of human civilization. They have also been a big part of our TV shows and movies. Over the years, several iconic actors have had horseback riding roles on the big and small screens. In this article, we’ll explore the careers and contributions of five famous horseback riders in film and TV.

John Wayne (You knew he’d make this list, right?)

The Duke. No list of famous horseback riders in the film industry would be complete without mentioning the legendary John Wayne. From his first Western role as an extra in 1926 to his final film in 1976 (The Shootist), John Wayne’s commanding and charismatic performances remain synonymous with the Western genre long after his death. His portrayal of cowboys and lawmen on horseback is the stuff of cinematic legend. 

Films like "Stagecoach" (1939), "The Searchers" (1956), and "True Grit" (1969) are testaments to Wayne's extraordinary talent for riding horses with authority and skill. His larger-than-life persona, coupled with his affinity for horses, made him the quintessential on-screen cowboy.

It's worth noting that John Wayne performed the majority of his own stunts, even earning an honorary membership in the Stuntman’s Association. Wayne was renowned for his ability to handle a horse. His role as Marshal Rueben “Rooster” Cogburn in 1969’s “True Grit” won him the Best Actor Oscar that year. One of the most iconic scenes in the movie is Wayne’s character taking the reins in his teeth, so he could charge at the villains with 2 guns blazing.

Kevin Costner

Long before Kevin Costner tackled the role of John Dutton in “Yellowstone,” the Oscar-winning actor had a number of memorable roles on horseback. One of his most notable performances was as Lieutenant John J. Dunbar in the epic western film "Dances with Wolves" (1990). Costner's portrayal of a Union Army officer who befriends a tribe of Lakota Sioux Indians showcased his horsemanship and deep connection with his equine co-stars. The actor served as both the star and director of the Oscar-winning film.

Costner also starred in the western, “Silverado” (1985); a film often credited with renewing interest in the western genre. His love for horses continued in movies like "Wyatt Earp" (1994) and "Open Range" (2003), where he displayed remarkable equestrian skills and brought authenticity to his characters. He even managed to work some horseback scenes in the post-apocalyptic film “The Postman” (1997), which he directed and produced as well as starred in. Now, as he wraps up his role on “Yellowstone,” Coster begins another role in an epic western film called “Horizon: An American Saga.” Undoubtedly, we’re sure to see him back in the saddle in that one as well.

Clint Eastwood

Actor and director Clint Eastwood has had many roles on horseback. Often portraying gritty and morally complex characters, Eastwood’s storied Hollywood career started with the TV series “Rawhide” His character, Rowdy Yates, appeared in all 8 seasons of the show’s run from 1959-1965. His big-screen star took off with the “Man with No Name” Trilogy. The three films, all directed by Italian filmmaker Serio Leone, are sometimes called spaghetti westerns. They went on to become some of the most iconic Western films of all time.  

In "A Fistful of Dollars" (1964), "For a Few Dollars More" (1965), and "The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly" (1966), Eastwood's portrayal of the enigmatic "Man with No Name" showcased his horse riding prowess and cemented his status as a western actor. The actor went on to star in a string of westerns, including “Hang ‘Em High” (1968), “High Plains Drifter” (1973), and “The Outlaw Josey Wales” (1976).

Eastwood made successful films in other genres but returned to his Western roots with "Pale Rider" (1985). His next western, "Unforgiven" (1992), earned both Best Picture and Best Director Oscars for Eastwood. It would be another 29 years before he made another film that displayed his horsemanship. That film was “Cry Macho” (2021)

James Arness

For an impressive 20 seasons (1955-1975), American TV audiences tuned in to the Western series “Gunsmoke” James Arness, playing Marshal Matt Dillon, was the star of the show. Arness appeared in every one of the 635 episodes that aired. 

As the marshal of Dodge City, Arness regularly rode his trusty horse, Buck. His portrayal of Marshal Dillon showcased a deep bond between the rider and his horse. Arness's charismatic presence and equestrian skills contributed to the immense success of "Gunsmoke" and solidified his place in television history. It’s not an understatement to say that he left an indelible mark as a famous horse rider on the small screen.

Clayton Moore

Like Gunsmoke, “The Lone Ranger” was a series that moved from a successful radio show to become a successful TV series. The series ran from 1949 to 1957. Actor Clayton Moore starred as the titular hero in most of the show’s 221 episodes.

The Lone Ranger exemplified the archetype of a “hero on horseback.” As the masked vigilante, Moore rode his faithful steed, Silver, while fighting for righteous justice and upholding the law. His catchphrase “Hi-Yo Silver” became part of the nation’s lexical zeitgeist. Moore's expert horsemanship and distinctive portrayal of the Lone Ranger made him an icon in the Western genre. And his dedication to horses extended beyond the screen, as he frequently appeared in public events and parades on horseback, eternally etching the image of the masked horseback rider in the collective memory of fans.

Honorable Mentions

Horseback riders have often played a pivotal role in film and television. There are many others that could have easily been included on this list. Gene Autrey, Jimmy Stewart, Kurt Russell, and others are clearly notable as well. But these five actors—Kevin Costner, John Wayne, Clint Eastwood, James Arness, and Clayton Moore—have left their lasting impressions with their unforgettable portrayals of horseback riders. Their ability to seamlessly connect with their equine co-stars and bring authenticity to their characters has resonated with audiences for generations. 

Through their performances, these honorable mentions have ensured that horses remain an integral part of the cinematic landscape, preserving the spirit of the Old West and the timeless bond between riders and their noble steeds.

Interested in a horse to emulate these legends? Don’t forget a trailer!

Regardless of where you are in your equine career, you’ll need something to carry your horses! At any Transwest location, our friendly and knowledgeable staff is happy to help you find exactly what you need. You can also check out our online inventory to get your show on the road.