Kevin Costner Faces Legal Setback in Horizon II Lawsuit Involving Stuntwoman Devyn LaBella
In a significant legal development, Kevin Costner’s attempt to have the sexual harassment and hostile workplace lawsuit filed by Horizon II stuntwoman Devyn LaBella dismissed fell short today. Despite seeing only two out of ten claims against him dismissed, LaBella’s legal team is preparing to move forward with the remaining allegations. Costner’s attorneys announced late Thursday their intention to file a swift appeal following a hearing at Los Angeles Superior Court.
During the court session, Judge Jon R. Takasugi upheld his preliminary ruling from May, indicating that while it wasn’t a complete defeat for Costner, he still faced substantial legal challenges. “Defendants’ special motion to strike is GRANTED as to the fourth and seventh causes of action, but DENIED as to all other causes of action,” Judge Takasugi stated, effectively removing LaBella’s claims of sexual harassment under the California Civil Code and interference with civil rights under the Bane Act from the lawsuit.
The judge noted that while there might be evidence to suggest harassment, it did not support a claim that LaBella felt she would face physical violence if she did not participate in a scene from the upcoming film in the Horizon: An American Saga franchise. Costner’s legal team has previously characterized LaBella’s allegations as “a bold-faced lie,” denying claims of a “violent unscripted, unscheduled rape scene” and asserting that the absence of mandated intimacy or stunt coordinators was misrepresented.
As the case progresses toward trial, Judge Takasugi emphasized the evidence presented by LaBella. He acknowledged that she had demonstrated a legally tenable claim regarding harassment and discrimination. “While the plaintiff alleges a single incident, she submitted evidence which suggests she was subjected to an unplanned simulated rape scene performed without proper discussion or coordination,” he noted, indicating that this could be interpreted as a hostile work environment.
LaBella’s legal representatives from Hadsell Stormer Renick & Dai and Valli Kane & Vagnini stated that the May 2nd shoot lacked the necessary contractual protections for the stuntwoman, underscoring that the lawsuit focuses on workplace safety rather than the film’s content.
In a critical aspect of the ruling, Judge Takasugi recognized that provisions of the SAG-AFTRA Basic Agreement were violated during the filming of the scene in question, supporting LaBella’s claim for breach of contract.
After the hearing, LaBella’s attorney, James A. Vagnini, expressed confidence in the merits of her case and the importance of holding those in power accountable. “We hope the Defendants won’t waste any more time on frivolous motions and will allow for a thorough discovery phase,” he stated, emphasizing the need for transparency in the proceedings.
On the opposing side, Costner’s attorney Marty Singer expressed satisfaction with the partial success of their anti-SLAPP motion, although he reiterated their intent to appeal the remaining claims. “The evidence is clear that these allegations lack legal and factual merit, and we are confident we will prevail,” Singer asserted.
As the legal battle continues, with a demurrer hearing scheduled for December, the outcome remains uncertain. Moreover, given the disappointing performance of the first film in the Horizon series and the unclear future of its sequels, Costner may find himself facing challenges beyond the courtroom as this case unfolds.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as both sides prepare for the next steps in this high-profile legal battle.
