BREAKING: Kevin Costner Facing Lawsuit Over Allegedly Improvised Violent Scene in Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 2
Stunt performer Devyn LaBella says she was “violated on set” without consent, prompting legal action against Costner and producers.

Kevin Costner — the Oscar-winning actor, director, and the creative force behind the ambitious Horizon: An American Saga western franchise — is now at the center of a disturbing legal controversy. Stunt performer Devyn LaBella has filed a lawsuit in California, alleging she was subjected to an unscripted and violent simulated rape scene without proper notice, consent, or the required presence of an intimacy coordinator.

LaBella, who served as the lead stunt double for actress Ella Hunt, claims that on May 2, 2023, she was summoned to set unknowingly to perform a newly improvised rape scene — a day after a separate, fully scripted rape scene had been shot with appropriate safeguards in place.

According to the lawsuit, Hunt refused to perform the newly proposed scene, and LaBella, unaware of that decision, was brought in without being briefed about the change. She alleges that Costner himself directed the scene, telling her to “lay down” in a wagon while instructing a male actor to simulate a violent assault involving physical restraint and forced movements.

“I was left exposed, unprotected, and deeply betrayed by a system that promised safety and professionalism,” LaBella said in a public statement. “What happened to me shattered my trust and forever changed how I move through this industry.”

The complaint alleges that the scene violated SAG-AFTRA protocols, including the need for 48 hours’ notice, informed consent, and a closed set for intimate or sexual content. Instead, LaBella claims the crew watched the scene live on monitors, and the intimacy coordinator — required by contract — was absent.

The lawsuit seeks damages for sexual harassment, hostile work environment, and breach of contract, and notes that LaBella began therapy in June 2023 due to the trauma she says she endured.

Costner Denies Allegations

Kevin Costner has denied all claims through his attorney Marty Singer, calling them “completely without merit.” Singer claims that LaBella had been briefed, gave a “thumbs up” after rehearsal, and later sent a thank-you message to the stunt coordinator expressing gratitude for her experience on set.

“Kevin Costner always prioritizes safety and professionalism,” Singer said. “This accusation is not only unfounded — it is contradicted by the plaintiff’s own words and behavior.”

LaBella’s legal team counters that fear of retaliation and pressure to maintain appearances during an active production were the reasons she kept working — despite her discomfort.

A Dream Project in Turmoil

Costner has personally invested $38 million of his own funds into Horizon, which is envisioned as a four-part Western epic. The first installment, released in June 2024, underperformed at the box office, grossing just $38.7 million globally. Chapter 2 premiered at the Venice Film Festival but has no public release date yet.

The lawsuit casts a shadow over what Costner once called his “legacy project.” It also raises broader questions about the treatment of stunt performers, consent, and the enforcement of industry safeguards in emotionally and physically intense scenes.

Industry Fallout?

With this case gaining international attention, SAG-AFTRA and other Hollywood watchdogs may review how stunt performers are protected on set — especially in scenes involving sexual violence.

As the legal battle unfolds, Costner’s team remains adamant about his innocence, while LaBella’s story has already started a new wave of debate about power dynamics, accountability, and what truly happens behind the camera.

Stay tuned for updates.