Kevin Costner has been named in a sexual harassment lawsuit filed by stunt performer Devyn LaBella, who alleges she was subjected to an unscripted rape scene on the set of Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 2 in 2023. LaBella claims the scene was directed by Costner without her consent or proper notice.
LaBella, who worked as a stunt double for lead actress Ella Hunt, alleged that after filming several weeks without incident, she was told to step in for a scripted rape scene with Hunt’s character Juliette and actor Douglas Smith’s character Sig. The scene was filmed on May 1, 2023, but LaBella claims Costner added an impromptu scene the next day where another actor climbed on top of Hunt.
LaBella alleges that she was not aware of the unplanned scene, which made her feel exposed and betrayed by a system promising safety and professionalism. The incident allegedly left her with permanent trauma, causing symptoms such as sleep disturbance, fears of intimacy, and anxiety.
Costner’s attorneys have denied the claims, stating they have “absolutely no merit” and that LaBella is a “serial accuser.” However, LaBella’s attorney Kate McFarlane argues that the case highlights deep-rooted issues in Hollywood’s male-dominated production culture.
Source: https://people.com/horizon-stuntperformer-files-sexual-harassment-lawsuit-against-kevin-costner-and-film-producers-11742855