Kevin Costner Sued Over Unscripted Rape Scene in Horizon — Chapter 2

In the news, it’s reported that Kevin Costner, renowned actor, director, and producer of the Horizon film series, is facing a lawsuit by stunt performer Devyn LaBella. The suit, filed on May 25 in Los Angeles County, accuses Costner of sexual harassment, breach of contract, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and sexual discrimination. The claim states that during the filming of Horizon: An American Saga — Chapter 2, Costner directed an improvised rape scene without adhering to appropriate procedures or involving an intimacy coordinator. LaBella, who was Ella Hunt’s lead stunt double, expressed in a statement that the incident severely violated her trust and altered her experience within the industry.

On May 2, 2023, it’s claimed that an unexpected rape scene occurred. During this time, Costner requested LaBella to replace another actress for this scene without giving her a heads-up about the nature of the scene. The lawsuit explains that LaBella was not warned or prepared for actor Roger Ivens to act inappropriately towards her. It wasn’t until Ivens was already on top of her, forcibly lifting her skirt, that she realized what was happening. The call sheet reportedly indicated a different scene for LaBella and Hunt, but upon arrival at the set, Costner informed Hunt about the rape scene. However, Hunt declined to participate as there was no intimacy coordinator present, which violated her contract. Notably, an intimacy coordinator had been present during the filming of a similar sex scene the previous day.

According to SAG-AFTRA regulations, performers must be given a rider at least 48 hours before the shooting of a scene begins, as stated on their official website. Additionally, only essential individuals are allowed on set when the union is enforcing a closed set policy. However, over one hundred people reportedly witnessed the scene. The second chapter of “Horizon: An American Saga” had its premiere at the Venice Film Festival in August 2024 and was screened at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival in February 2025.

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2025-05-29 01:53