“Kevin Costner and Horizon Producers Sued by Stunt Performer Over Alleged Unscripted and Violent Scene”

Stunt Performer Sues Kevin Costner and Horizon Producers Over Alleged Unscripted Scene

Stunt performer Devyn LaBella has filed a lawsuit against Kevin Costner and the producers of Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 2, alleging she was directed to participate in an unscripted and violent simulated rape scene without prior notice, consent, or the presence of a mandated intimacy coordinator.

LaBella, who served as the stunt double for actress Ella Hunt’s character Juliette, claims the scene occurred on May 2, 2023—one day after a separate, scripted rape scene had been filmed with the proper protocols in place. According to the complaint, Hunt declined to perform the newly improvised scene, after which LaBella was called to set without being informed of Hunt’s refusal.

The lawsuit alleges that Costner, who also writes, directs, and stars in the film, instructed a male actor to physically simulate a violent rape without briefing LaBella or ensuring necessary safety procedures. She claims she was directed to lie down in a wagon and was then subjected to repeated takes of the simulated assault, without having been given the opportunity to consent or prepare.

LaBella argues that the scene violated SAG-AFTRA contractual guidelines, which require 48 hours’ notice and explicit consent for any scene involving nudity or simulated sex. She further alleges that the film’s intimacy coordinator—whose presence was required—was not on set during filming, and that the scene was not conducted on a closed set, contrary to union standards for sensitive content. The suit claims the scene was visible to crew members via production monitors and could be observed by anyone passing by.

The complaint contrasts this incident with the previously filmed scripted scene, which LaBella states was handled with rehearsals, a closed set, and the required coordinator.

LaBella is seeking damages for sexual harassment, breach of contract, and working in a hostile environment, stating that the experience left her feeling “shocked, embarrassed, and humiliated.” She began attending therapy in June 2023, shortly after the alleged incident.

In a statement to Variety and Deadline, Costner’s attorney Marty Singer denied the allegations, describing them as “entirely without merit.” He asserted that LaBella had consented to the scene after it was explained to her and gave a “thumbs up” to the stunt coordinator following rehearsal. Singer also cited a text message allegedly sent by LaBella after the shoot in which she expressed gratitude to the stunt team, stating: “Thank you for these wonderful weeks! I so appreciate you! I learned so much… I’m really happy it worked out the way it did.”

LaBella maintains in the lawsuit that although she voiced concerns to colleagues, she felt obligated to continue working and remain professional as production was ongoing.

Costner has heavily invested in the Horizon project, personally financing a large portion of its estimated $100 million budget. The first installment, released in June 2024, underperformed at the global box office, earning $38.7 million. Chapter 2 premiered at the Venice International Film Festival in September 2024, but has not yet received a wide release date.