Kevin Costner has been named in a sexual harassment lawsuit filed by stunt performer Devyn LaBella. The complaint, filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court, accuses Costner of directing an unscripted and violent rape scene during the filming of Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 2 in May 2023. LaBella also listed the production companies involved in the movie as defendants, seeking an undisclosed amount in damages and requesting a jury trial.
LaBella Alleges Unscripted Scene Violated Consent Rules and Industry Safety Protocols
According to the lawsuit, LaBella was hired as a stunt double for lead actress Ella Hunt and was involved in physically demanding scenes. She claims she was informed she would double for an aggressive, yet scripted, rape scene with actor Douglas Smith on May 1, which she performed with no issues. However, the following day, an unscheduled scene was allegedly introduced by Costner involving another actor, Roger Ivens, which required violent physical contact not previously discussed or approved.
Kevin Costner Accused of Orchestrating Unscripted Assault Scene in Stuntwoman’s Harassment LawsuitLaBella asserts that the alleged scene on May 2 violated several SAG-AFTRA guidelines, which prohibit last-minute requests for nudity or simulated sex without proper notice and consent. She claims she was unaware Hunt had left the set after refusing to perform the scene and was then asked by Costner to stand in with no preparation, safeguards, or knowledge of when filming began or ended. Crucially, the scene was conducted without the presence or involvement of designated intimacy or stunt coordinators.
LaBella Alleges Trauma and Betrayal Amid Broader Industry Issues and Denial from Costner
Following the incident, LaBella reportedly experienced emotional distress, including anxiety, sleep disturbances, and difficulty with intimacy. She took a break from filming and later returned to what she described as an isolating and awkward environment. She began therapy in June 2023 and claims the trauma from the event has had lasting effects on her mental health and professional outlook in the film industry.
In a public statement, LaBella expressed a sense of betrayal and emphasized her commitment to improving safety standards in film production. Her attorneys described the incident as indicative of a broader systemic issue within the male-dominated Hollywood industry. They argue that the protections meant to safeguard performers were blatantly disregarded. The lawsuit highlights ongoing concerns about accountability and consent in intimate and violent scenes on set.
Costner’s attorney, Marty Singer, denied the allegations, calling them baseless and accusing LaBella of attempting a “shakedown.” He claims she rehearsed and approved the scene in question and even expressed gratitude afterwards, sharing a positive text message with emojis. Singer insists Costner prioritizes safety and comfort on set and asserts that the facts will prove his client’s innocence. Meanwhile, representatives for actress Ella Hunt and actor Roger Ivens have not commented on the lawsuit.