Hollywood heavyweight Kevin Costner has launched a robust legal defence against claims made by a stuntwoman who alleges she suffered permanent hearing damage while working on his passion project, Horizon: An American Saga.
The Allegations: A Life-Changing Injury
Devyn LaBella, a professional stunt performer, filed a lawsuit claiming that during filming of the Western epic, she was positioned dangerously close to multiple gunfire blasts without adequate ear protection. The court documents state she now suffers from permanent hearing loss and tinnitus, conditions she describes as significantly impacting her daily life and career prospects.
Costner's Forceful Rebuttal
Through his legal team, the Yellowstone star has filed court documents completely denying any responsibility for LaBella's alleged injuries. The defence argues that Costner cannot be held personally liable for incidents that may occur during production, emphasising the complex safety protocols and professional teams typically involved in major film productions.
A Pattern of Safety Concerns?
LaBella's legal complaint suggests this wasn't an isolated incident, alleging that multiple crew members expressed concerns about hearing protection on set. However, Costner's representatives maintain that all industry-standard safety measures were properly implemented and followed throughout the production.
What's at Stake for Both Parties
For LaBella: The stuntwoman seeks substantial damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and ongoing pain and suffering, claiming her career in the physically demanding stunt industry has been jeopardised.
For Costner: The Oscar-winning director and actor has invested significantly in Horizon, both financially and creatively. This legal battle represents not just a financial threat but potential damage to the film's reputation before its highly anticipated release.
The Broader Industry Implications
This case highlights ongoing concerns about stunt performer safety in Hollywood, particularly regarding long-term health consequences that may not be immediately apparent. The outcome could influence safety standards and liability protocols across the entertainment industry.
As both parties prepare for a potentially lengthy legal battle, the entertainment world watches closely to see how this high-profile case will resolve and what precedent it might set for future on-set safety disputes.
