In a development that has sent shockwaves through Hollywood, veteran actor and director Kevin Costner is embroiled in a legal battle following allegations made by stunt performer Devyn LaBella. The lawsuit claims that LaBella was coerced into performing a violent, unscripted rape scene during the filming of Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 2, the highly anticipated sequel to Costner’s ambitious Western saga. The controversy has not only captured public attention but also sparked an industry-wide debate about on-set safety, consent, and the responsibilities of filmmakers toward their cast and crew.

The Allegations in Detail

According to court documents filed in May 2025, LaBella, who served as the lead stunt double for actress Ella Hunt, was allegedly asked to perform a scene that deviated significantly from the original script. The lawsuit states that Hunt had refused to perform the scene, prompting the production team to summon LaBella.

LaBella claims she was not informed in advance about the graphic nature of the scene and that no intimacy coordinator—a professional responsible for ensuring safe execution of sex scenes—was present on set. She describes the experience as “humiliating” and “emotionally traumatic,” asserting that it has caused lasting psychological distress and damaged her career prospects.

The lawsuit names Costner and the production companies—Horizon Series Inc., Horizon Series 2 LLC, and Territory Pictures Inc.—accusing them of sexual harassment, discrimination, and creating a hostile work environment. LaBella is seeking unspecified damages, a formal apology, and mandatory anti-sexual harassment training for all parties involved.

Industry analysts note that the lawsuit highlights ongoing concerns about stunt performers and actors being exposed to unsafe working conditions, particularly in scenes involving simulated sexual violence.

Kevin Costner’s Response

Costner has vehemently denied all allegations. In a motion to dismiss the lawsuit, his legal team called the claims “absolutely false” and a “shakedown.” They argue that the scene in question was fully scripted and rehearsed, and that LaBella had given her informed consent to participate.

Evidence submitted by Costner’s attorneys includes on-set photographs and behind-the-scenes footage showing LaBella smiling and engaging professionally during rehearsals. Text messages allegedly sent by LaBella to the intimacy coordinator expressing gratitude and approval of her role have also been presented as proof that she did not feel coerced or distressed at the time.

Additionally, several other cast and crew members have come forward to affirm that LaBella appeared comfortable during the filming of the scene, further supporting Costner’s defense.

Industry Reactions

The lawsuit has ignited discussions across Hollywood about set safety protocols, consent, and the treatment of stunt performers. The Screen Actors Guild (SAG) has specific guidelines mandating the presence of intimacy coordinators for scenes depicting sexual content, as well as prior notice and informed consent. Critics argue that any deviation from these standards can have severe ethical and legal consequences.

Legal experts suggest that the case could establish a significant precedent. If the court finds negligence on the part of the filmmakers, it may compel studios to adopt stricter enforcement of safety measures, formalized consent processes, and mandatory training for all personnel involved in filming sensitive scenes.

Some industry insiders have expressed concern that the case may affect how directors approach high-risk sequences in the future, especially those involving physical or sexual content. For an actor like Kevin Costner, known for performing many of his stunts personally, the stakes are particularly high.

Background on the Horizon Franchise

The Horizon series is an ambitious Western saga originally conceived as a four-part epic. While the first installment received mixed reviews and underperformed at the box office, Costner’s creative vision for the sequels aimed to elevate the storytelling with a blend of historical drama and action-packed sequences.

The production of Horizon 2 has already faced numerous delays and budget overruns. Compounding the difficulties is the ongoing lawsuit, which threatens to overshadow the film’s artistic goals and complicate its release strategy. Some analysts speculate that the controversy could affect distribution deals, marketing campaigns, and even casting decisions for future installments.

Behind-the-Scenes Challenges

Horizon 2 has been described by insiders as a high-pressure production. Costner is deeply involved as both actor and producer, personally overseeing stunts, set design, and narrative continuity. Filming on remote locations, including deserts and rugged landscapes, presented logistical hurdles, such as transporting crew, setting up specialized equipment, and managing weather-related delays.

The contested scene itself was reportedly designed to illustrate the brutal realities of conflict in the story. Costner’s defenders argue that the scene was necessary for narrative integrity and that standard safety precautions were followed, despite the allegations.

Legal Implications

The legal significance of this case cannot be overstated. Courts may consider whether the filmmakers violated SAG protocols, whether consent was adequately obtained, and whether the scene created a hostile environment. A ruling against Costner or the production companies could lead to substantial financial penalties and stricter industry regulations.

Furthermore, the case is likely to influence public perception of Costner and the Horizon franchise. Even if the lawsuit is dismissed, the allegations may persist in media narratives, potentially impacting audience reception and box office performance.

Kevin Costner’s Career at Stake

Kevin Costner has faced scrutiny before, but few controversies in his long career have involved legal disputes of this magnitude. The outcome of this lawsuit may shape how Hollywood approaches productions with sensitive content and how actors engage with high-risk roles.

Costner has consistently maintained a reputation for professionalism and commitment to authenticity. His involvement in performing stunts, directing, and producing adds complexity to the case, as it intertwines personal responsibility with broader production oversight.

Broader Industry Impact

Beyond the personal ramifications for Costner, the lawsuit raises important questions for the film industry at large:

How can productions ensure the safety and consent of stunt performers?

What mechanisms can be implemented to prevent coercion in sensitive scenes?

How do studios balance creative vision with ethical responsibilities toward cast and crew?

Many professionals believe the resolution of this case could influence Hollywood policies and lead to stronger safeguards for performers involved in scenes of physical or sexual risk.

Looking Ahead

As the case moves through the legal system, all eyes are on Costner, LaBella, and the Horizon franchise. The lawsuit promises to be a landmark moment, with potential implications for legal accountability, industry standards, and public perception.

For now, the franchise remains in limbo, with its release timeline uncertain. Fans and critics alike are closely watching developments, understanding that the outcome may set a precedent for how Hollywood handles complex and sensitive content on set.

Conclusion

The Kevin Costner lawsuit over Horizon 2 represents a pivotal moment in Hollywood, highlighting the importance of consent, safety, and accountability on film sets. While the legal battle unfolds, it provides a rare glimpse into the high-stakes world of blockbuster filmmaking, where ambition, creativity, and ethical responsibility often intersect in challenging ways.

Whether Costner emerges unscathed or faces legal consequences, the case is certain to leave a lasting mark on the industry, shaping how future productions approach sensitive content and protecting the rights of stunt performers and actors alike.