Kevin Costner Sued Over Alleged Unscripted Rape Scene in Horizon: An American Saga

Kevin Costner, the Hollywood icon behind the ambitious Horizon: An American Saga series, faces a lawsuit from stuntwoman Devyn LaBella, who alleges she was subjected to a traumatic, unscripted rape scene during the filming of Horizon: Chapter 2 in May 2023. LaBella, doubling for actress Ella Hunt, claims Costner directed an impromptu scene without her consent, violating SAG-AFTRA protocols requiring 48-hour notice, a closed set, and an intimacy coordinator for scenes involving simulated sex or nudity.

The complaint, filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court, accuses Costner and his production companies of sexual harassment, discrimination, creating a hostile workplace, and retaliation. LaBella alleges that on May 2, 2023, after Hunt refused to perform the unscripted scene and left the set, Costner directed another actor to perform a 'violent simulated rape' on her without proper safeguards. The set was not closed, and the scene was broadcast on monitors, amplifying her distress. She describes enduring shock, humiliation, and ongoing trauma, requiring therapy for symptoms like anxiety and intrusive memories.

Costner’s attorney, Marty Singer, vehemently denies the allegations, calling them meritless and labeling LaBella a 'serial accuser.' Singer claims LaBella gave a 'thumbs up' after rehearsing the scene and showed no distress, even sending a friendly text to the stunt coordinator with heart emojis after filming. He insists Costner prioritizes set safety and that LaBella’s actions contradict her claims.

LaBella, however, stands firm, stating the incident 'shattered' her trust in the industry. She’s now committed to advocating for safer sets, emphasizing consent and communication. The lawsuit seeks unspecified damages and a jury trial, spotlighting the broader issue of workplace protections in Hollywood.