A stunt performer working on the set of the television series “Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 2” has filed a sexual harassment lawsuit against actor Kevin Costner and the producers of the show. According to the complaint obtained by PEOPLE, Devyn LaBella alleges that on May 2, 2023, she was subjected to a violent and unscripted rape scene directed by Kevin Costner. LaBella is seeking undisclosed damages and a trial by jury for the alleged incident.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/kevin-costner-scad-fest-111124-6b66f880f64344e3a2ce573d9f4c0669.jpg)
The lawsuit, filed in the Superior Court of California for Los Angeles County on May 27, names both Kevin Costner and the production companies behind the show as defendants. LaBella, who was hired as a stunt double for lead actress Ella Hunt, claims that she was asked to perform in a scene that involved aggressive and intimate content without proper notice or consent. This incident reportedly took place after LaBella had been working on the show for several weeks without any issues.
LaBella’s complaint states that the scene in question was not part of the original script and was added by Kevin Costner without following industry guidelines regarding intimate scenes. She alleges that she was left feeling exposed and unprotected during the filming of the scene, which led to feelings of shame, humiliation, and a lack of control. The lawsuit also details LaBella’s struggles with trauma following the incident, which she has been addressing through therapy since June 2023.
In response to the allegations, Kevin Costner’s attorney Marty Singer has denied the claims, stating that the actor prioritises the safety and comfort of everyone on set. Singer accuses LaBella of being a “serial accuser” and claims that her allegations are contradicted by her own actions and the facts surrounding the incident. He asserts that Costner will prevail in the lawsuit and describes LaBella’s claims as part of “shakedown tactics.”
LaBella’s attorney, James A. Vagnini, describes the lawsuit as emblematic of ongoing issues in Hollywood concerning the treatment of individuals on set. He and LaBella’s other attorney, Kate McFarlane, highlight the need for better industry standards to protect performers like LaBella from harm. The lawsuit calls attention to the importance of consent, communication, and safety on film sets, particularly when it comes to scenes involving sensitive content.
Despite the denials from Costner’s legal team, LaBella remains steadfast in her allegations and her pursuit of justice through the legal system. The lawsuit serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding professional standards and ensuring the well-being of all individuals working in the entertainment industry. This case sheds light on the challenges faced by stunt performers and the need for comprehensive measures to protect their rights and ensure their safety on set.