“Horizon ”Stuntwoman Recalls ‘Humiliation’ Over Alleged Unscripted Rape Scene in New Filing Against Kevin Costner, Producers

Stuntwoman Alleges ‘Humiliation’ on ‘Horizon’ Set, Sues Kevin Costner and Producers

A stuntwoman is taking legal action against Kevin Costner and the producers of Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 2, claiming she experienced “shock, embarrassment and humiliation” while filming an alleged unscripted rape scene on set. Devyn LaBella, the stunt performer, detailed her distress in an amended complaint filed in California on June 18. The lawsuit, as reported by PEOPLE, alleged that during filming on May 2, 2023, LaBella’s personal undergarments were exposed in the absence of proper professionals such as stunt coordinators or intimacy coordinators. This lack of oversight left LaBella feeling uncertain about when filming was taking place and when breaks occurred.

The complaint further claimed that LaBella was instructed by Costner to participate in the scene without any opportunity to prepare, consent, or object. According to LaBella’s attorneys, Roger Ivens, the actor involved in the scene, maintained physical contact with LaBella in a manner that made her uncomfortable. Costner’s attorney, Marty Singer, refuted these accounts, stating that the scene was a rehearsal for an insert shot involving no intimacy or sexual content. Singer also cited text messages from LaBella expressing gratitude for her time on set as contradictory evidence.

LaBella’s legal team asserted that her ordeal was compounded by menstruation, as her undergarments were exposed during the filming process. Following the scene, the complaint stated that LaBella was visibly shaken and distressed while left alone on set. Singer rebuffed these claims, calling them baseless and citing testimony from witnesses to refute LaBella’s narrative. The amended complaint also called for the defendants to undergo anti-sexual harassment training, hire an intimacy coordinator for future projects, and issue a public apology.

In response to the lawsuit, Costner’s representative emphasised his commitment to ensuring a safe and comfortable working environment for all cast and crew members. LaBella’s initial legal action was filed in May, with allegations against Costner and the production companies involved in Horizon series. The incident occurred after actress Ella Hunt, for whom LaBella was a stunt double, reportedly walked off set in protest of the scene. Singer labelled LaBella a “serial accuser,” disputing the credibility of her claims and characterising them as without merit.

The ongoing legal battle between LaBella and the defendants highlights the importance of workplace safety and respect within the entertainment industry. The demand for accountability and redress for alleged misconduct underscores the need for stringent protocols to protect all personnel on film sets. As the case unfolds, the outcome will undoubtedly have implications for industry standards and practices. Stay tuned for updates as this story continues to develop.