Kevin Costner seeks to dismiss sexual harassment lawsuit filed by stunt double from the film “Horizon.”
Kevin Costner is seeking to have a sexual harassment lawsuit dismissed, filed against him by Devyn LaBella, a stunt double for actress Ella Hunt. LaBella claims that during the filming of “Horizon,” she was coerced into performing a violent, unscheduled rape scene, a charge that has sparked significant controversy within the entertainment industry.
Represented by prominent lawyers Marty Singer and T. Wayne Harman, Costner contends that LaBella’s assertions lack merit. According to court documents revealed by Media News Source, LaBella expressed her gratitude and enthusiasm upon wrapping her involvement in the second installment of “Horizon: An American Saga.” The legal team argues that her alleged positive sentiments contradict the accusations she has made in her lawsuit.
The declarations submitted by Costner’s team include statements from various cast and crew members, which they believe support their position and challenge LaBella’s claims. In a personal declaration, Costner described LaBella’s allegations as “absolutely false” and “deeply disappointing,” adding a personal dimension to the dispute that highlights tensions between actors, stunt performers, and their roles on set.
LaBella’s lawsuit, filed in late May, outlines not only claims of sexual harassment but also alleges a hostile work environment, retaliation, and interference with civil rights, among other charges. She asserts that the disputed scene, which involved a co-star significantly larger than herself, was inserted without prior notice and allegedly lacked proper oversight, such as the presence of intimacy coordinators, which are typically required for sensitive scenes.
Costner’s response to LaBella’s allegations maintains that there was no nudity or physical contact between the parties involved, a assertion that challenges the core aspects of her lawsuit. In addition, Costner’s legal representatives previously branded the lawsuit as “meritless,” suggesting that the claims have been inconsistently supported by witness testimonies.
This legal battle unfolds against a backdrop of increasing scrutiny in the film industry regarding the treatment of stunt performers and the necessity of protective measures in the execution of scenes involving potential harm or distress. As the case develops, it is set to test not only the claims made by LaBella but also the current practices surrounding stunt work in Hollywood. The repercussions of this lawsuit may extend beyond the participants involved, potentially influencing industry standards and practices.
