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Kevin Costner Faces Lawsuit Over Alleged Unscripted Rape Scene in New Film

Hollywood star Kevin Costner is embroiled in a legal dispute after a stunt performer filed a lawsuit alleging she was subjected to an unscripted and deeply distressing rape scene during the filming of his upcoming Western, Horizon: An American Saga. The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court, has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and ignited a fierce debate about safety protocols and responsible filmmaking.

The performer, identified as Monica Weaver, claims that she was not adequately warned about the graphic and violent nature of the scene, which involved simulated sexual assault. According to the lawsuit, the scene was not part of the original script and was introduced without her informed consent. Weaver alleges that she experienced significant emotional distress as a result of the incident and is seeking damages for negligence and intentional infliction of emotional distress.

Details of the Alleged Incident

The lawsuit details a specific scene where Weaver, performing a stunt involving being thrown from a horse, was allegedly directed by Costner to improvise a reaction that included portraying a sexual assault. Weaver claims the direction was given without prior discussion or warning, leaving her feeling vulnerable and traumatized. The filing asserts that Costner and other members of the production team failed to take reasonable steps to ensure her safety and well-being.

Costner's Response and Production Status

Costner's legal team has yet to issue a comprehensive response to the lawsuit, but sources close to the actor say he is taking the allegations seriously. Production on Horizon: An American Saga has been temporarily halted while the legal proceedings unfold. The film, an ambitious multi-part Western, was already facing delays due to a dispute with distributor Warner Bros. This new lawsuit adds another layer of complexity to the project’s future.

Industry Reaction and Safety Concerns

The lawsuit has prompted widespread discussion within the entertainment industry about the need for stricter safety protocols and greater transparency regarding potentially sensitive scenes. Unions and advocacy groups are calling for mandatory sensitivity training for actors and stunt performers, as well as a more robust system for obtaining informed consent before filming potentially traumatic scenes. Many are questioning how such a scene could be introduced without proper discussion and agreement from all involved.

Legal Implications and Future of the Film

The lawsuit against Costner raises significant legal questions about the boundaries of directorial control and the rights of performers. The outcome of the case could have far-reaching implications for how filmmakers approach potentially sensitive subject matter in the future. The case is expected to be lengthy and complex, and the future of Horizon: An American Saga remains uncertain. Regardless of the legal outcome, the allegations have already cast a shadow over the film and its star.