The Young Guns films are more than just classic Westerns—they’re a whole vibe. From slow-motion shootouts to a killer cast of ‘80s heartthrobs, these movies became instant legends. And now, with Young Guns 3: Dead or Alive stirring up the dust again, it's time to relive some wild behind-the-scenes magic. Here are 10 pieces of Young Guns trivia that even hardcore fans might not know!
1. Emilio Estevez Did All His Own Stunts
Billy the Kid wasn’t just wild on screen—Emilio Estevez actually did many of his own stunts during filming. From horse-riding stunts to chaotic shootouts, Estevez was all in. Talk about living the outlaw life!
2. The Real Chavez y Chavez Lived to Be an Old Man
In Young Guns II, Chavez is shot down in the final battle… or is he? Lou Diamond Phillips has pointed out that the real Jose Chavez y Chavez actually lived well into his 70s. That might explain why his return in Young Guns 3 isn’t just a fantasy—it’s historically possible.
3. Bon Jovi Wrote the Theme Song in 10 Minutes
The anthem “Blaze of Glory” wasn’t just a hit—it was iconic. And believe it or not, Jon Bon Jovi wrote it in about 10 minutes after seeing a rough cut of Young Guns II. That song went on to win a Golden Globe and earned a Grammy nomination!
4. Young Guns Was One of the First “Brat Pack” Westerns
The first film brought together stars like Estevez, Charlie Sheen, Kiefer Sutherland, and Lou Diamond Phillips. Hollywood dubbed them part of the “Brat Pack” – a group of young, wildly popular actors in the ‘80s. Imagine if TikTok existed back then!
5. Charlie Sheen’s Role Was Originally Bigger
Charlie Sheen played Dick Brewer in the first film but was killed off way earlier than originally planned. Rumor has it he was too busy with other projects—but fans still loved his brief, intense role.
6. Kiefer Sutherland Took Riding Lessons for Weeks
To play the poetic yet deadly Doc Scurlock, Sutherland trained for weeks with horses so he could look like a natural. It paid off—his character's calm demeanor and deadly aim made him unforgettable.
7. Lou Diamond Phillips Studied Navajo Culture for Chavez
Phillips didn’t just show up to act—he researched Indigenous culture to bring depth and dignity to his character. His performance made Chavez a fan favorite and one of the most iconic Native characters of the decade.
8. The First Film Used Real Historical Documents
The filmmakers went deep into history to make Young Guns authentic. They based much of the Lincoln County War plot on real newspaper clippings, trial records, and letters from the 1800s. That’s why the movie feels so real—because much of it is!
9. There’s a Real-Life “Billy the Kid Grave” in New Mexico
If you’re ever road-tripping through Fort Sumner, New Mexico, you can visit the supposed grave of Billy the Kid. But just like in Young Guns II, people still debate whether he faked his death and escaped. Spooky, right?
10. Lou Diamond Phillips Says He’d Crawl Through Glass to Rejoin the Cast
In recent interviews, Phillips said, “I would crawl through broken glass to go work with those guys again.” That says it all. The cast chemistry was—and still is—real. And it’s one of the big reasons Young Guns 3 is so highly anticipated.
Final Shots
From the dusty plains of New Mexico to the hearts of fans around the world, the Young Guns saga is still kicking up excitement decades later. And with new developments around Young Guns 3: Dead or Alive, it’s the perfect time to brush up on your trivia and rewatch the originals.
Let us know in the comments: Which fact blew your mind the most?
Want more? Stick with us here on the blog—we’re riding shotgun with every Young Guns 3 update we can find!
