Renowned actor Kevin Costner finds himself embroiled in a legal battle as he seeks to dismiss a lawsuit filed by a stunt performer, alleging misconduct during the filming of “Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 2.” The lawsuit, which has captured public attention, claims that Costner’s involvement in an unscripted scene violated industry norms and lacked proper consent. In response, Costner asserts the claims are a calculated attempt to damage his reputation. This unfolding legal drama has significant implications for Hollywood’s ongoing discussion about safety and power dynamics on set.
Costner’s Defense Against Allegations
In a recent declaration filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, Kevin Costner vehemently denied the accusations brought by Devyn LaBella. He described the claims as “absolutely false” and “deeply disappointing,” suggesting they were strategically crafted to tarnish his reputation and the Horizon film series. Costner expressed his frustration at having to confront allegations involving serious accusations like “rape” and “assault,” which he says are unfounded.
Costner argued that the allegations were sensationalized to embarrass him and the films he is associated with, potentially aiming for what he described as an “unjustified payday.” He criticized the language used in the lawsuit, describing it as “sensationalistic” and a calculated attack on his character.
The Details of the Lawsuit
Devyn LaBella’s lawsuit against the production companies and Costner includes charges of sexual discrimination, harassment, and a hostile work environment. LaBella, who worked as the stunt double for actor Ella Hunt, asserted that the production lacked the mandated presence of an intimacy coordinator during a spontaneous scene of sexual violence filmed in May 2023.
The lawsuit accused Costner of orchestrating an unplanned scene where LaBella stood in for Hunt, involving another character, played by Roger Ivens. According to LaBella, the scene was executed without proper notice or consent and involved actions she described as an attempted violation. Costner, however, refuted this description, labeling it as a “bold-faced lie” designed to shock and gain publicity at his expense.
Legal Maneuvering Underway
Costner’s legal team is attempting to have the lawsuit dismissed under California’s anti-SLAPP laws, which aim to protect individuals from lawsuits that might deter them from exercising free speech. This legal strategy suggests that Costner’s lawyers believe the lawsuit is more about intimidation than justice.
In response, LaBella’s attorney, James A. Vagnini, countered that Costner’s filing illustrates an attempt to evade accountability. Vagnini asserted that despite claims discrediting LaBella’s professional demeanor, evidence from various sources, including eyewitness accounts and communications, supports her claims. He described the motion to dismiss as a desperate delay tactic by a legal team with insufficient defense.
The lawsuit and its implications remain a point of discussion in Hollywood, highlighting issues of safety, respect, and power within the industry. As the case unfolds, the world watches closely to see how this high-profile dispute will be resolved.
