Unsolved Enigma: The True Voice Behind 'Field of Dreams’ Iconic Scene Continues to Baffle Fans
The fact that no definitive answer exists keeps fans guessing and adds to the film’s timeless charm — an unresolved secret that continues to spark debate and fascination.
Field of Dreams is a beloved film renowned for its poetic storytelling and iconic scenes, none more famous than the mysterious whispering voice that utters:
“If you build it, he will come,” to protagonist Ray Kinsella (Kevin Costner).
This line has become one of the most parodied moments in film history. Yet, more than 35 years after the movie’s release, the true identity of the voice remains an enduring mystery.
The voice is credited simply as being played by “himself,” fueling decades of speculation among fans and critics alike. Many have guessed that Kevin Costner himself might have provided the whisper, or perhaps Ray Liotta, who starred in the film.
Others point to Ed Harris — who was married to Amy Madigan, one of the film’s stars — claiming he might be behind it. Still, a significant number of enthusiasts believe that Mark Hamill, famed for his role as Luke Skywalker and his distinctive voice work, could be the mysterious speaker.
In 2019, writer-director Phil Alden Robinson addressed the ongoing enigma. He admitted he hadn’t heard anyone guess correctly and chose not to reveal any clues, emphasizing that he prefers to keep it an unsolved puzzle. Robinson described the mystery as both “brilliant and infuriating,” adding an extra layer of mystique to an already legendary scene.
This deliberate ambiguity has only heightened the scene’s allure over the decades.
