Kurt Russell Recalls Kicking Elvis in Shins During Debut

The actor reminisces about his first movie role opposite the King of Rock 'n' Roll.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 3:06pm

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In a recent interview, actor Kurt Russell looked back on his movie debut, which involved kicking Elvis Presley in the shins. Russell, who was just a child at the time, appeared in a small role opposite the legendary singer in the 1963 film "It Happened at the World's Fair."

Why it matters

Russell's recollection provides a rare, behind-the-scenes glimpse into the early career of one of Hollywood's most iconic actors, as well as the lasting impact of Elvis Presley's cultural influence.

The details

In the film, Russell played a young boy who kicks Elvis' character in the shins after the singer's character is rude to him. Russell, who was only 12 years old at the time, said he was nervous about the scene but that Elvis was very kind and understanding.

  • Russell made his film debut in 1963 in "It Happened at the World's Fair."

The players

Kurt Russell

An American actor who made his film debut as a child actor in 1963, kicking Elvis Presley's character in the shins in the movie "It Happened at the World's Fair."

Elvis Presley

The legendary American singer, actor, and cultural icon known as the "King of Rock 'n' Roll," who starred in the 1963 film "It Happened at the World's Fair."

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What they’re saying

“I was nervous about kicking Elvis in the shins, but he was very kind and understanding about it.”

— Kurt Russell (wn.com)

The takeaway

Russell's recollection of his first movie role alongside the iconic Elvis Presley provides a unique glimpse into the early careers of two of entertainment's most legendary figures, showcasing the lasting impact of Presley's cultural influence and Russell's own storied acting career.