What Did Kevin Costner Say About the Lawsuit Over Horizon 2's Controversial Scene?

Kevin Costner has publicly refuted claims made by stunt performer Devyn LaBella, who alleges that she was coerced into performing an unscripted rape scene while working on the film Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 2. Costner described the accusations as a "bold-faced lie" intended to tarnish his reputation and disrupt the production of the film.

Last updated: 03 October 2023 (BST)

Background of the Controversy

The legal dispute began when Devyn LaBella filed a lawsuit against Costner and the production team in May 2023, alleging that she was subjected to a violent and unplanned scene that violated union protocols for stunt performers. According to her account, the incident occurred while filming in Utah, where she was serving as the lead stunt double for one of the film's stars.

Key Takeaways

• Devyn LaBella has filed a lawsuit claiming she was forced into performing a violent scene.
• Kevin Costner has categorically denied the allegations, calling them a "lie."
• The controversy has raised questions about safety protocols on film sets.
• Intimacy co-ordinator Celest Chaney has corroborated LaBella's claims.
• The release of Horizon 2 has been delayed due to the ongoing legal issues.

The Legal Claims

In her lawsuit, LaBella described a harrowing experience where she was allegedly pinned down and subjected to a violent simulated rape scene, directed by a male actor. She claimed that this scene was broadcast publicly on monitors for the entire crew, which she argued violated her rights and created a hostile work environment. LaBella's lawsuit also includes accusations of sexual discrimination and harassment.

Costner's Response

In a legal declaration filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, Costner described LaBella's claims as "patently false" and expressed his dismay over the use of such serious language. He suggested that the lawsuit was an opportunistic attempt to exploit the situation for financial gain. Costner's lawyer, Marty Singer, stated that LaBella was satisfied with her role on set and accused her of lying for monetary benefits.

The Role of the Intimacy Co-ordinator

Adding further complexity to the case, intimacy co-ordinator Celest Chaney filed an amendment to the lawsuit, supporting LaBella's claims. Chaney described the scene in question as an "unscheduled, unplanned violent rape scene" that was unexpectedly introduced to the cast and crew. She also highlighted that LaBella did not have the appropriate modesty garments, which are typically used to ensure safety and coverage during sensitive scenes.

Supporting Testimonies

Costner's legal team has asserted that they possess sworn testimonies from a dozen experienced film crew members who dispute LaBella's allegations. They argue that real-time photographs from the shoot and LaBella's own comments at the time contradict her current claims. This testimony is expected to play a crucial role in the unfolding legal proceedings.

The Impact on Horizon's Production

The production of Horizon: An American Saga has been significantly impacted by these allegations. Costner, who invested £28 million of his personal funds into the film's estimated £74 million budget, had initially envisioned a four-film series set in the late 1800s. The first film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in 2024, receiving a mixed reception, which has subsequently delayed the release of the second film indefinitely.

Box Office Performance and Future Prospects

While the first film garnered a 10-minute standing ovation at Cannes, it ultimately flopped at the box office, raising concerns about the viability of the entire franchise. The future of the second film now remains uncertain, with many fans and industry insiders questioning whether the project will move forward amid ongoing legal issues and controversy.

The Broader Implications for the Film Industry

This incident has ignited a larger conversation about the safety and treatment of stunt performers in the film industry. Many are calling for stricter adherence to safety protocols and greater oversight to prevent similar situations from occurring in the future. The allegations made by LaBella highlight the ongoing challenges faced by professionals working in high-risk environments and the need for comprehensive protections.

What Happens Next?

As the legal battle continues, both parties are expected to gather evidence and testimonies to support their claims. The outcome of this lawsuit could have far-reaching implications for the production of Horizon 2 and potentially influence industry standards regarding the treatment of stunt performers. The film community will be watching closely as the situation develops.

FAQs

What are the main allegations made by Devyn LaBella?

Devyn LaBella alleges that she was coerced into performing a violent, unscripted rape scene while working as a stunt performer on Horizon 2. She claims this violated union protocols and created a hostile work environment.

How has Kevin Costner responded to the allegations?

Kevin Costner has publicly denied the allegations, calling them a "bold-faced lie." He claims the lawsuit is an opportunistic attempt to damage his reputation and that it contains falsehoods.

What role did the intimacy co-ordinator play in this incident?

Intimacy co-ordinator Celest Chaney has supported LaBella's claims, describing the scene as an unexpected, unplanned violent act. She also noted that LaBella lacked appropriate modesty garments during the filming.

How has this controversy affected the release of Horizon 2?

The release of Horizon 2 has been delayed indefinitely due to the ongoing legal issues surrounding the allegations made by LaBella. The future of the project is currently uncertain.

What are the potential implications for the film industry?

This incident raises significant concerns about the safety and treatment of stunt performers in the film industry. It may lead to calls for stricter safety protocols and greater accountability in similar situations.