Kevin Costner Seeks Dismissal of Sexual Harassment Lawsuit, Calls It a “Shakedown”

Veteran actor and filmmaker Kevin Costner has formally asked a California judge to dismiss a sexual harassment lawsuit linked to his western saga Horizon: An American Saga. Costner, 70, described the case as a “shakedown attempt” and insists the claims are both “false” and “financially motivated.”

Lawsuit Filed in June

The lawsuit was originally filed on June 12, 2025, in Los Angeles Superior Court by a former crew member from the Horizon production. The plaintiff alleges that Costner engaged in inappropriate conduct during filming in Santa Fe, New Mexico, between April and May 2024.

The allegations quickly drew media attention, given Costner’s high-profile role not only as the lead actor but also as the director and financier of the project.

Costner’s Motion Filed in August

On August 15, 2025, Costner’s attorneys submitted a motion to dismiss the lawsuit, arguing that the accusations lack merit and fail to meet legal definitions of harassment.

“Mr. Costner has spent over four decades building a career of integrity and professionalism,” his spokesperson said in a statement released on August 16, 2025. “This lawsuit is nothing more than an attempt to damage his reputation at a critical point in his career.”

What’s at Stake for Horizon

The timing of the legal battle is especially sensitive. The first installment of Horizon: An American Saga premiered in theaters on June 28, 2024, and its sequel is scheduled for release on November 7, 2025.

Costner has invested tens of millions of dollars of his own money into the multi-part project. Industry observers note that the outcome of this case could influence the film’s reception, distribution partnerships, and even long-term franchise plans.

Hearing Set for September

Judge Ellen Markham of the Los Angeles Superior Court has scheduled a hearing on the dismissal motion for September 3, 2025. If the court sides with Costner, the case could end swiftly. If not, the lawsuit will proceed to the discovery phase — a process likely to draw even more headlines.

Broader Hollywood Context

The lawsuit against Costner is the latest in a series of harassment cases that have surfaced in Hollywood since the #MeToo movement gained momentum in 2017. While some cases have led to convictions or major industry reckonings, others have been dismissed outright for lack of evidence.

By filing for dismissal rather than negotiating a quiet settlement, Costner signals a determination to clear his name publicly. Legal experts say this could either strengthen his reputation as someone unwilling to compromise with false claims or prolong scrutiny if the case moves forward.

Conclusion

With the hearing scheduled for early September, Kevin Costner’s legal fight is poised to become a pivotal moment both for his personal reputation and for Horizon, the film he has staked his legacy on.

For now, fans, critics, and Hollywood insiders will be watching closely to see whether the court sides with Costner’s push for dismissal — or whether the case expands into a full-scale legal battle.