Rust cast and character guide: Who plays whom in the Western drama?

Rust, the Western drama film starring Alec Baldwin, may always be associated with the unfortunate loss of gifted cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. The film has since been in discussion due to a legal battle involving its star and armorer. Although it was eventually finished, the film's writer-director, Joel Souza, laments the on-set tragedy to date.

When asked if he would change something if allowed to redo the process, Souza told The Guardian,

“You think about the chain of events that started that morning. Bad decision after bad decision was made Talk about the butterfly effect, I wish I never wrote the damn movie.”

After a premiere at a Polish film festival, the film was released theatrically on May 2, 2025, and has recently become available on video-on-demand platforms. Its plot synopsis, per IMDb, reads:

"A boy left to fend for himself and his younger brother following their parents' deaths in 1880s Wyoming goes on the run with his long-estranged grandfather after he is sentenced to hang for the accidental killing of a local rancher."

In addition to Alec Baldwin, the cast includes Travis Fimmel, Frances Fisher, Josh Hopkins, and more.

Rust cast and characters: Who stars in this Western drama film alongside Alec Baldwin?

The film brings together an ensemble cast of actors with several years of experience and some new faces. They join this drama film about a young kid who goes on a wild adventure with his estranged grandfather, who saves his life, in 1882 in Wyoming Territory.

Alec Baldwin as Harland

A still from Rust, shot by Halyna Hutchins (Image via YouTube/@IGN)

Alec Baldwin plays Harland, a hardened old man running from the law. That's when he crosses paths with his grandson Lucas. Although this Western drama shows him in a considerably darker role, he is widely known for his comedic performances in shows like 30 Rock and Saturday Night Live. However, he has also been in dramatically demanding roles, including his Oscar-nominated turn in 2003's The Cooler.

Patrick Scott McDermott as Lucas Hollister

Patrick Scott McDermott is a young actor who plays 13-year-old Lucas trying to avenge the loss of his brother. It leads him to cross paths with his estranged grandfather, also grieving his loved ones. Aside from this film role, McDermott has been a part of television projects like Goosebumps, FBI, South Side, and Chicago Med.

Travis Fimmel as Fenton "Preacher" Lang

Travis Fimmel plays Fenton Lang, AKA Preacher, who is a part of a law enforcement team that tries to capture outlaw Harland for his past crimes. He works closely with the marshal to bring Harland to justice. The Vikings fans will already know Fimmel for his performance as Ragnar in the series. In addition to that, Fimmel has starred in shows like Dune: Prophecy, Black Snow, Raised by Wolves, and more.