Kevin Costner Sued Over Unscripted Rape Scene in Horizon by Stunt Performer

Kevin Costner and the producers behind Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 2 are facing a lawsuit from stunt performer Devyn LaBella. She alleges that she was forced to perform in a violent unscripted rape scene without prior notice, consent, or the presence of a mandated intimacy coordinator.

What Happened on the Set of Horizon?

The lawsuit, filed in California, details events from May 2, 2023. Devyn LaBella was the lead stunt double for Ella Hunt, who plays Juliette in the Horizon series, a four-part western anthology written, directed, and starring Costner. The complaint claims that after filming a scripted rape scene with proper protocols the day before, Costner improvised a new scene where Juliette would be raped by a different actor.

Ella Hunt reportedly refused to perform the new unscripted scene, and LaBella was called to the set without being told that Hunt had left due to her refusal. LaBella says she was blindsided, unaware that the male actor was directed to mount her, pin her down, and “violently” rake up her skirt. She claims Costner instructed her to “lay down” in a wagon while the actor performed repeated simulated rape actions across multiple takes.

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Violations of Industry Protocols

LaBella’s lawsuit argues this scene broke several industry safety rules negotiated by the performers’ union SAG-AFTRA. These rules require 48 hours’ notice and explicit consent for scenes involving nudity or simulated sex. She claims no notice was given, she did not consent, and an intimacy coordinator—required by contract—was not on set.

Additionally, the set was not closed for privacy. LaBella alleges the scene was visible on monitors for the entire crew and that anyone could walk by and watch the disturbing filming process. In contrast, the scripted rape scene the day before was rehearsed with an intimacy coordinator present and filmed on a closed set to protect the actors’ privacy.

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Emotional Toll and Legal Claims

The stunt performer describes feeling “shock, embarrassment, and humiliation” immediately after the scene, which led her to begin therapy in June 2023. She accuses the production of creating a hostile work environment and sexual harassment. LaBella claims she raised complaints but felt pressured to maintain professionalism because filming was ongoing.

Kevin Costner’s Response

Costner’s attorney Marty Singer denies all allegations. He states that Costner prioritizes on-set safety and that LaBella’s claims lack merit. According to Singer, LaBella was informed about the scene and gave a “thumbs up” during rehearsal, indicating consent. He also presented a text message allegedly sent by LaBella after filming, expressing gratitude and satisfaction with the experience.

Background on Horizon Films

Kevin Costner has personally invested $38 million into the Horizon films, which have a total estimated budget of $100 million. The first chapter was released in June 2024 but underperformed at the box office, earning $38.7 million worldwide. Horizon: Chapter 2 premiered at the Venice International Film Festival in September 2024, but no general release date has been announced yet.

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This lawsuit raises serious questions about safety and consent on film sets, especially during sensitive scenes. It highlights the challenges performers face and the importance of respecting established protocols to protect all involved.