Stunt Double vs. Hollywood Legend: The Shocking Allegations and Counterclaims
Drama on the Set of Horizon: A Bitter Dispute Between Kevin Costner and Stuntwoman Devyn LaBella
The drama is unfolding on the set of Kevin Costner's Western series, Horizon, as a bitter dispute has emerged between the 69-year-old actor-director and stuntwoman Devyn LaBella. LaBella filed a lawsuit in May claiming that she was subjected to a "violent, unscripted, unscheduled rape scene" directed by Costner while filming Horizon: An American Saga - Chapter 2 in May 2023.
But now, Costner is hitting back with a forceful response, releasing new court filings containing behind-the-scenes photos that appear to show LaBella smiling and "comfortable" on set while shooting the scene in question. The images depict LaBella in full costume, with bike shorts under an ankle-length dress, lying fully clothed next to actor Roger Ivens in a covered wagon.
In a sworn declaration obtained by thescholarlynote.com, Costner included the photos, which he claims demonstrate that LaBella was never pressured or uncomfortable during the scene. "I had no reason to believe that she was upset in any way," Costner stated in his declaration. "In fact, I never heard that Devyn claimed to be upset about anything that happened that day until months after principal photography of the Picture was over when I learned that she had retained an attorney."
Costner's team is now asserting that LaBella's complaint should be dismissed altogether, accusing her of fabricating her account. They point out that LaBella sent a gushingly grateful text to a supervisor after the shoot wrapped, stating "Thank you for these wonderful weeks! I so appreciate you!" This seemingly contradicts LaBella's claim that she was left overwhelmed and in shock after the scene.
But LaBella is standing firm, insisting that her account of the traumatic incident on set is true. In an amended complaint filed on June 18, LaBella included screenshots of text messages with the film's intimacy coordinator along with detailed descriptions of the painful emotions she allegedly experienced after the scene was completed.
LaBella claims that she was "told to lie down" and then subjected to a simulated rape without warning or rehearsal. She alleges that her undergarments were exposed, and she was left alone afterward, feeling overwhelmed and in shock. LaBella's attorneys, James A. Vagnini and Kate McFarlane, both shared statements echoing LaBella's claims.
"This case is not just about what happened to me," LaBella stated. "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."
The scandal has sparked a heated debate within the film industry, with many raising questions about the treatment of stunt performers and the protocols in place to prevent such incidents. As the drama continues to unfold, one thing is certain: LaBella's allegations will not be easily brushed aside.
What Happened on Set?
According to Costner's declaration, the scene in question was intended to depict a lead-up to Juliette's sexual assault by character Birke, played by Roger Ivens. The shot was "carefully blocked" with no nudity, simulated sex, or simulated rape. Costner maintains that LaBella agreed to block the moment and was never pressured.
Costner also submitted declarations from other members of the cast and crew contradicting LaBella's story. They claim that LaBella participated in rehearsals for the scene, understood what was to happen, and consented to help.
But LaBella disputes this account, stating that she was "told to lie down" without warning or rehearsal, and then subjected to a simulated rape on top of her. She claims that her undergarments were exposed, and she was left alone afterward, feeling overwhelmed and in shock.
A Broken System?
LaBella's allegations have sparked a heated debate about the treatment of stunt performers and the protocols in place to prevent such incidents. Her attorneys argue that the defendants failed her in every possible way, leading with denial and redirection instead of accountability and an apology.
"How many more men who have followed this same pattern of denial and redirection have to be sued or go to jail before they realize that leading with accountability and an apology goes a long way?" Vagnini stated.
As the drama continues to unfold, one thing is certain: LaBella's allegations will not be easily brushed aside. The case has shed light on the need for greater awareness and support within the film industry for stunt performers and other workers who may be vulnerable to exploitation or harassment.
The Investigation Continues
Thescholarlynote.com has obtained a copy of the new court filings, which include the behind-the-scenes photos that appear to show LaBella smiling and "comfortable" on set. The case is ongoing, with both sides presenting their versions of events.
Stay tuned for further updates as this drama continues to unfold.
