Walton Goggins has been a scene-stealer for over two decades, but his partnership with Quentin Tarantino in the 2010s elevated him to new heights. While many remember his standout turn in The Hateful Eight, it was his earlier, smaller role in Django Unchained that truly showcased his talent. In just over eight minutes of screen time, Goggins left an indelible mark on one of the best modern Westerns.
In Django Unchained, Goggins played Billy Crash, a cruel overseer at the Candyland plantation owned by Calvin Candie (Leonardo DiCaprio). Despite sharing the screen with heavyweights like Jamie Foxx, Christoph Waltz, and DiCaprio, Goggins made every second count. His character is despicable, menacing, and oddly charismatic—a testament to Goggins' ability to bring depth to even the most villainous roles.
One of the most memorable moments in the film is the exchange between Billy Crash and Django (Foxx) on the way to Candyland. After being humiliated, Crash sneers, "Oh, I'm gonna go walkin' in the moonlight with you." Django coolly replies, "You wanna hold my hand?" The scene is both chilling and comedic, perfectly capturing Tarantino's signature blend of tension and humor. It also serves as the introduction to Rick Ross's song "100 Black Coffins," which plays over the moment.
Goggins landed the role through a favor from director Robert Rodriguez, a mutual friend of his and Tarantino's. After reading the script, Goggins reached out, and Tarantino—already a fan—quickly brought him on board. This collaboration paved the way for Goggins' larger role in The Hateful Eight three years later, where he held his own against legends like Kurt Russell and Samuel L. Jackson.
For fans of the Western genre, Goggins' work in Django Unchained is a masterclass in efficiency. His performance proves that even a small role can leave a huge impact. If you're looking for more great Westerns, check out our list of Top 6 Western Movies Since 2000 or dive into Forgotten R-Rated Westerns That Are Perfect from Start to Finish.
Since The Hateful Eight, Tarantino has only directed one feature—Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood—and has hinted that his next film will be his last. Fans are hoping that when that final project arrives, it includes a role tailor-made for Walton Goggins. After all, their collaborations have been a match made in Western heaven.
