A significant legal challenge continues for Kevin Costner as a judge has largely denied his motion to dismiss a sexual harassment lawsuit filed by stunt performer Devyn LaBella regarding the filming of ‘Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 2’. This development casts a long shadow over the future of Costner’s ambitious Western film series, as fans eagerly await clarity on its production and release.
The cinematic world of Kevin Costner’s ‘Horizon’ saga has been hit with a real-world drama, as a judge ruled that a sexual harassment lawsuit against the acclaimed director and actor can largely proceed. This legal battle, initiated by stunt performer Devyn LaBella, involves serious allegations about an unscripted scene during the production of ‘Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 2’, raising critical questions for both the film industry and devoted fans.
The Core Allegations and Costner’s Defense
In May, Devyn LaBella, who served as the stunt double for actress Ella Hunt on ‘Horizon 2’, filed a lawsuit accusing Costner and the production companies of sexual harassment and creating a hostile work environment. LaBella specifically claimed she was made to perform an “unscripted rape scene” without proper notice or consent, and crucially, without the presence of a mandatory intimacy coordinator for that particular scene, according to Entertainment Weekly.
Her lawsuit details a stark contrast between a carefully choreographed rape scene rehearsal on May 1, 2023, which included a closed set and an intimacy coordinator, and the alleged incident on May 2. On the latter date, LaBella claims she was asked to “stand in” for Hunt after the lead actress became upset over a sudden script change request by Costner. LaBella was allegedly not informed that actor Roger Ivens would “mount her and violently pull her skirt up” until the action was occurring, an event that left her traumatized. The film’s intimacy coordinator, Celeste Chaney, reportedly supported LaBella’s account, stating the scene was “unexpectedly sprung” on the performer.
Costner, through his attorney Marty Singer, vehemently denied these allegations in August, filing a motion to dismiss the lawsuit under California’s anti-SLAPP law, which protects free speech from frivolous litigation. He asserted that LaBella’s claims were “patently false” and an attempt to “embarrass and damage” him and the ‘Horizon’ films for an “unjustified payday.”
Judge’s Ruling: A Setback for the Director
Los Angeles County Judge Jon Takasugi denied Costner’s motion to dismiss, allowing most of LaBella’s claims to proceed. The judge stated that the facts alleged in the lawsuit were sufficient to warrant further legal action. While one claim, concerning a violation of the Bane Act (which requires threats or coercion), was dismissed, nine of the ten claims, including those for sexual harassment and hostile work environment, will continue.
“There is a lot to be said about this decision and the rest of the case, Hollywood, and its movies,” Judge Takasugi remarked, as reported by Rolling Stone. “At this point, this early in the case…there is sufficient evidence.”
LaBella expressed gratitude for the outcome, with her attorneys affirming their confidence in prevailing against the defense’s motion. Kate McFarlane, one of LaBella’s attorneys, emphasized, “The creative process cannot and does not give men in power complete impunity to abuse women like Ms. LaBella.”
Conversely, Costner’s legal team maintains their position, with Marty Singer stating they were “disappointed with the Court’s decision to allow her remaining causes of action to proceed” and plan to appeal. He stressed that there was “never any ‘simulated rape,’ ‘simulated sex’ or sexual harassment — and absolutely no retaliation.”
Impact on the ‘Horizon’ Saga
The ongoing legal proceedings introduce a layer of uncertainty for the ambitious ‘Horizon: An American Saga’, a planned four-film series spearheaded by Kevin Costner. He directs, writes, produces, and stars in the project, a true passion endeavor.
The first installment, ‘Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 1’, premiered in June 2024 and garnered a reported $11 million during its opening weekend, a figure some deemed a box office disappointment. Consequently, the release of ‘Horizon 2’, initially slated for months later, has been paused, and it currently lacks a release date. This legal battle adds another complex factor to the future of the entire franchise, which is of great concern to fans who have invested in Costner’s vision for this epic Western.
The case is expected to continue, with a next hearing scheduled for December. The outcome will undoubtedly have significant ramifications for Kevin Costner, Devyn LaBella, and the evolving standards of safety and consent within the filmmaking industry.
