"Kevin Costner Sued by Stunt Actress for Allegedly Forcing Unscripted Sexual Assault Scene"

Stunt Actress Alleges Assault During Filming of Movie Directed by Costner
Costner's Side Responds: "Completely Baseless Claims"

Kevin Costner, a renowned Hollywood actor and director, has recently been sued by a stunt actress who appeared in a film he directed. The lawsuit alleges that Costner forced her to participate in a sexual assault scene that was not included in the script.

Kevin Costner attending the exhibition at the LA Academy Museum of Motion Pictures last September. Photo by AFP Yonhap News

According to U.S. entertainment media outlets such as People and The New York Times on May 28 (local time), Devin LaBella, who worked as a stunt double for the lead actress in the film "Horizon: An American Saga - Chapter 2," has filed a lawsuit for damages against director Costner and the film's production company. LaBella claims, "On May 2, 2023, I became the victim of a rape scene that was not in the script while on the set of the film directed by Costner."

According to the complaint, on the day of the incident, Costner asked lead actress Ella Hunt to perform an unplanned rape scene. Hunt refused and left the set, after which LaBella, as her stunt double, was brought in for the shoot. LaBella's side claims she was not fully aware of the situation at the time. They also allege, "During the repeated filming of various takes of the rape scene, Costner subjected her to repeated assaults."

LaBella's attorney stated in an interview with the media, "This case is a clear example of the male-dominated and sexist nature of Hollywood film production." The attorney added, "LaBella has suffered serious trauma as a result of this shoot," and emphasized that "she wants an official apology from Costner and the production team."

Costner's side has stated that they cannot accept LaBella's claims. Costner's attorney countered, "These allegations are completely baseless," and insisted, "LaBella agreed to the shoot after the rehearsal that day." The attorney further emphasized, "Costner strives to ensure that everyone can work comfortably on his sets and places great importance on safety during filming."

Costner is one of Hollywood's most prominent stars, having gained immense popularity in the 1990s with films such as "Dances with Wolves" (1990) and "The Bodyguard" (1992). He has recently experienced a resurgence in his career, receiving acclaim for his lead role in the American drama series "Yellowstone," which has aired since 2018.

However, the "Horizon" series, which he directed and produced with his own investment, has been both critically panned and commercially unsuccessful. "Horizon: An American Saga - Chapter 2," the second installment in the series and the subject of the current controversy, premiered at the Venice International Film Festival last year but has yet to secure a theatrical release date.