Devyn LaBella, a stunt actress involved in “Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 2,” has amended her sexual discrimination and harassment lawsuit against director Kevin Costner and his production company, introducing new evidence including text messages to an intimacy coordinator regarding an allegedly unscripted and non-consensual rape scene.
In her statement, LaBella described the incident as a “reckless violation,” emphasizing that it represented a breach of consent and basic workplace safety. She recounted being instructed to lie down unexpectedly while another actor simulated a rape scene against her, claiming her undergarments were exposed. LaBella firmly stated, “Compliance under pressure is not consent,” asserting that she voiced her objections immediately but was met with silence and attempts to discredit her.
LaBella’s amended lawsuit, filed June 18, includes text conversations with intimacy coordinator Celeste Cheney, who allegedly was not appointed during the scene in question on May 2, 2023. In these texts, LaBella expressed her distress, saying she had been placed in a troubling position that significantly affected her. Furthermore, she provided contracts and call sheets to back her claims that the scene was not scripted or approved.
The lawsuit alleges numerous deficiencies concerning the scene’s facilitation, including the lack of an intimacy coordinator and the failure to communicate essential details about the scene to LaBella prior to filming. The document also highlights that the scene was visible to the entire cast and crew and that anyone could enter to watch during filming.
An incident report from Cheney confirmed the neglect of established protocols, revealing that stunt coordinator Wade Allen was the only crew member who attempted to stop LaBella from performing the scene, asserting it was not appropriate for a stunt double.
LaBella’s attorney, James A. Vagnini, emphasized that the evidence presented, including text messages and Cheney’s report, contradicts claims that LaBella had no concerns about the events. Vagnini criticized the repeated denial of responsibility by the defendants, urging for accountability.
In response, Costner’s representatives countered LaBella’s assertions, arguing that her claims conflict with those of multiple witnesses. They characterized the incident as a rehearsal for a scripted scene, stressing that LaBella had thanked the production team for her time working on the film.
LaBella’s initial lawsuit filed on May 27 contends that she was subjected to a rape scene without proper notice or consent, violating union guidelines, and that she endured retaliation for raising her concerns.
This situation highlights ongoing issues within the film industry regarding consent, the treatment of performers, and the implementation of safety protocols. Such cases shed light on the urgent need for systemic change to protect individuals in vulnerable positions, ensuring that their voices are heard, especially in high-pressure environments.
Through her courage to speak out, LaBella’s situation could serve as a catalyst for necessary reform in industry practices, ultimately fostering a safer and more equitable workplace for all performers.