Kevin Costner accused in Horizon lawsuit has drawn intense public scrutiny after stuntwoman Devyn LaBella claimed the actor and director attempted to silence and discredit her following allegations involving an unscripted and violent scene on the set of Horizon. The controversy intensified as LaBella presented new evidence in court on June 18, months after filing suit against Costner, Territory Pictures, and others involved with the film.
Stuntwoman Details Alleged Incident on Set
According to Devyn LaBella, she was hired to work as a stunt performer for Horizon, which Kevin Costner directed. While working on the production in May 2023, LaBella stated that she participated in what she described as an unscheduled and violent scene, which she characterized as a breach of consent and a disregard for workplace safety.
“What happened to me on that set was a reckless violation — a breach of consent and of basic workplace safety,”
LaBella declared, directly attributing responsibility to those overseeing the Horizon set. —Devyn LaBella, Stuntwoman
She further stated,
“I was told to lie down, and without warning or rehearsal, another actor was brought in to simulate a rape on top of me,”
recounting the moment she believes crossed serious boundaries of professional conduct. —Devyn LaBella, Stuntwoman
“My undergarments were exposed. I was left alone afterward, overwhelmed and in shock. Compliance under pressure is not consent. Consent cannot be given after the harm has already begun.”
—Devyn LaBella, Stuntwoman
Accusations of Silence and Efforts to Discredit
LaBella asserted that after voicing her concerns about the incident, she faced immediate resistance and was met with efforts to undermine her credibility. She criticized the overall culture in the industry, suggesting it favors those in power while failing to protect people who come forward.
“Once the line is crossed, there is no real choice left to make. I spoke up immediately. And for that, I was met with silence, deflection, and efforts to discredit me. This case is not just about what happened to me. It’s about a broken system that protects those in power and punishes those who speak out. It’s about demanding change, not just for me but for everyone who deserves to work in safety and dignity.”
—Devyn LaBella, Stuntwoman
Kevin Costner and Studio Response
In response to LaBella’s claims, Kevin Costner and representatives from his production company have denied any wrongdoing. Costner’s attorney, Marty Singer, issued a statement addressing the specifics of the alleged incident.
“[LaBella] was doing a rehearsal on an Insert Shot for a scripted scene. There was no intimacy or anything sexual in the shot. There was tugging on a dress while she was fully clothed in a dress with long bloomers lying down next to a male actor. Numerous witnesses have contradicted [LaBella’s] meritless claims. She herself texted her supervisor after she wrapped, stating, ‘Thank you for these wonderful weeks.’”
—Marty Singer, Attorney for Kevin Costner
The statement suggests that those present on set dispute LaBella’s version of events and emphasize that the scene in question did not involve explicit content. Witnesses and supervisors, as referenced by Singer, are said to challenge the accusations brought forth in court.
Calls for Change Amidst Broader Industry Issues
LaBella emphasized the broader implications of her legal action, arguing that her case highlights systemic problems within the entertainment industry regarding worker protection and rights.
“What happened on that set was wrong. Let it be known: I stood up. I told the truth. And I will never apologize for demanding the bare minimum — to be treated like a human being at work.”
—Devyn LaBella, Stuntwoman
The case brings renewed attention to workplace safety protocols and the obligations of directors and studios during film production. As the matter continues in court, the testimonies of witnesses, the involvement of LaBella’s supervisor, and statements from high-profile attorneys and representatives may further shape the course of the lawsuit.
This ongoing dispute has sparked wider discussions about power dynamics on set and the need for clearer protections for stunt performers and crew, with many observers watching closely to see what changes may result from the outcome of Devyn LaBella’s legal challenge against Kevin Costner and the Horizon production team.
