Kevin Costner Sued Over Alleged Unscripted Rape Scene on Horizon 2 Set

In a shocking turn of events, Hollywood actor Kevin Costner finds himself embroiled in a serious legal battle.

A lawsuit has been filed against him by stunt performer Devyn LaBella, who alleges she endured a “violent, unscripted, unscheduled” simulated rape scene during the filming of Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 2 in Utah on May 2, 2023.

This lawsuit, lodged in Los Angeles County Superior Court, encompasses a range of serious claims including sexual discrimination, harassment, the creation of a hostile work environment, retaliation, and intentional infliction of emotional distress.

Devyn LaBella - IMDb

LaBella, 34, asserts that the production team failed to adhere to established protocols during the filming of the alleged scene.

Marty Singer, the attorney representing Costner, has vehemently denied these allegations, insisting that they possess “absolutely no merit.”

Singer contends that LaBella rehearsed the scene in character, communicated her readiness to perform, and was never compelled to actually film the scene.

According to the complaint, LaBella served as the lead stunt double for actress Ella Hunt.

She claims that on May 2, conditions on set abruptly changed when Costner requested a last-minute, unscheduled scene that was not included on the call sheet.

This scene allegedly involved actor Roger Ivens simulating a violent rape, which caused Hunt to walk off the set, visibly distressed.

LaBella alleges she was not informed of Hunt’s departure from the scene and was subsequently asked to step in.

Under the impression that it was a routine stunt, she agreed, but claims she was unaware of the scene’s true nature until Ivens was already on top of her.

The complaint further states that the scene was executed without an intimacy coordinator present, which is a violation of industry standards.

LaBella asserts that performers are required to receive a written rider detailing such scenes at least 48 hours in advance, a stipulation that she claims was disregarded.

After voicing her concerns to the intimacy coordinator, LaBella alleges she was not invited back for Horizon 3, which began filming in early 2024.

Kevin Costner - The Talks

In a public statement, LaBella expressed her feelings of betrayal, stating, “On that day, I was left exposed, unprotected, and deeply betrayed by a system that promised safety and professionalism.”

She added, “This experience has ignited in me a lifelong mission to be the advocate I once needed.”

The lawsuit seeks both compensatory and punitive damages, a public apology, mandatory anti-harassment and anti-sexual violence training for the production team, and the inclusion of an intimacy coordinator for all future projects.

Horizon: An American Saga is a four-part Western series developed by Costner, chronicling the settlement of the American West.

While this series has been a passion project for the actor-director, it has received mixed reviews from critics and audiences alike.

As the case unfolds, it raises critical questions about the safety and treatment of performers in the entertainment industry.

The legal ramifications of such allegations can have far-reaching effects not only on the individuals involved but also on the broader landscape of Hollywood.

The entertainment industry has been under scrutiny in recent years, with numerous high-profile cases highlighting issues of harassment and misconduct.

This lawsuit against Costner adds another layer to the ongoing conversation about the need for accountability and reform within the industry.

Many are watching closely to see how this case will progress and what implications it may have for future productions.

As more details emerge, the focus will likely shift to the protocols in place to protect performers and ensure a safe working environment.

The allegations made by LaBella are serious and warrant thorough investigation.

The outcome of this lawsuit could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future.

It also underscores the importance of having clear guidelines and support systems in place for those working in the entertainment field.

Why Kevin Costner Risked His Fortune, Reputation, and Personal Life for  Horizon | Vanity Fair

In recent years, the industry has made strides toward addressing issues of harassment and misconduct, but there is still much work to be done.

The response to LaBella’s allegations will be closely monitored by industry professionals and advocates alike.

As the lawsuit progresses, it is crucial for all parties involved to approach the situation with transparency and integrity.

The conversation surrounding the treatment of performers is more important than ever, and this case could serve as a catalyst for change.

With the potential for significant repercussions, both legally and socially, the stakes are high for Costner and the production team behind Horizon.

Devyn LaBella Fan Casting

As the legal proceedings unfold, it will be essential for the industry to reflect on its practices and prioritize the safety and well-being of all its members.

The allegations made by LaBella highlight the need for ongoing dialogue and action regarding workplace safety in Hollywood.

Ultimately, the outcome of this lawsuit could have lasting effects on the industry and its approach to handling sensitive issues.

As we await further developments, one thing is clear: the fight for justice and accountability in Hollywood continues.