consent

Devyn LaBella, a stuntwoman who has filed a lawsuit against Kevin Costner, alleges that the actor attempted to “silence” and “discredit” her following an incident on the set of his film, *Horizon*. LaBella’s claims revolve around an alleged unscripted and violent rape scene that she contends occurred during filming in May 2023. She asserts that her experience on set was a serious violation of consent and workplace safety. In her lawsuit, filed last month against Costner, 70, and Territory Pictures, LaBella claims new evidence was submitted to the court on June 18. She describes a harrowing situation where she was instructed to lie down on set and, without warning or rehearsal, another actor was brought in to simulate a rape scene on her. LaBella stated, “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.” LaBella emphasized her belief that the incident represents a broader systemic issue in the film industry, stating, “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.” She concluded her statement with a firm assertion, “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.” In response to these allegations, Costner has denied any wrongdoing. His attorney, Marty Singer, issued a statement asserting that LaBella was merely rehearsing a scripted scene that did not involve any sexual content. He claimed that numerous witnesses contradict LaBella’s assertions and pointed to a text message she sent her supervisor after filming, expressing gratitude for her time on the project. Singer reiterated, “We look forward to the swift end of this specious lawsuit,” underscoring the defense’s stance that the claims lack merit. The legal battle has drawn attention not only for the serious nature of the allegations but also for the dynamics of power and accountability in Hollywood. LaBella’s attorney, James Vagnini, remarked on the ongoing attempts to undermine her client’s credibility, stating, “Despite Defendants’ continued misstatements that Ms. LaBella had no issues with what transpired, evidence — including text messages, phone calls, and even a scathing report by production’s own Intimacy Coordinator — demonstrates the true narrative: that the Defendants failed her in every possible way.” LaBella’s lawsuit has been amended to include these new claims and evidence, and her legal team is adamant about the validity of her experience. Another attorney representing LaBella, Kate McFarlane, expressed disappointment at the attempts to discredit her client, stating, “We have seen this time and again from men in this industry attempting to deflect the narrative rather than take any accountability for their actions that harm others.” The alleged incident involved actress Ella Hunt and actor Roger Ivens, with LaBella claiming that Hunt refused to participate in the scene after learning of its nature. According to the lawsuit, the scene directed by Costner involved Ivens simulating a sexual assault on LaBella, which she asserts was performed without her consent. LaBella’s legal team contends that the production failed to follow proper protocols, and they have highlighted the need for accountability within the industry. The intimacy coordinator on set reportedly noted that the situation was not handled appropriately and that apologies should have been issued to both LaBella and Hunt for the distress caused. As the case unfolds, it raises significant questions about the treatment of performers in Hollywood, particularly regarding issues of consent and the protection of vulnerable individuals in the industry. The outcome of this lawsuit could have far-reaching implications, potentially prompting changes in how productions manage sensitive scenes and the safety of their cast and crew. In the wake of these serious allegations, the entertainment community is watching closely, as the case highlights the ongoing struggle for accountability and justice in the film industry. As LaBella continues to advocate for her rights and the rights of others, her story underscores a critical moment in Hollywood’s reckoning with issues of power, consent, and workplace safety.