A settlement has been reached with the family of cinematographer Halina Hutchins, who was accidentally killed by Alec Baldwin on the set of Rust.
In October 2021, the filming of the western Rust with Alec Baldwin turned into a drama. The 63-year-old actor, who was also a feature film producer, accidentally killed cinematographer Halina Hutchins and wounded film director Joel Souza by shooting them with what appeared to be an empty gun.
The accident revived the debate about the use of firearms and the supervision of their use on film sets. Today, the victim’s family announced that they reached an agreement with the production.
Let’s get back to the facts
A month after the events, several members of the team (lighting designer Serge Svetnoi and set designer Mamie Mitchell, in particular) filed a malpractice suit against Alec Baldwin.
In February 2022, the family of Halina Hutchins also filed a lawsuit against the actress and producer for “dangerous conduct”. The latter condemned the cost-cutting measures taken by the film’s producers, which they said led to the death of the cinematographer.
Last August, after a lengthy investigation, New Mexico authorities decided to classify Halina Hutchins’ death as an “accident.” The report states:An autopsy found no conclusive evidence that the firearm was intentionally loaded with live ammunition on set. Based on all available information, the manner of death is classified as an accident.”.
The sheriff’s office immediately said it was still investigating Alec Baldwin’s phone records.
This Wednesday, the husbandHalina HutchinsMatthew Hutchins released a statement announcing that a settlement has been reached with the producers and Alec Baldwin (subject to court approval).
Filming update in memory of Halina Hutchins
As part of the deal, the deal is being rescinded and Matthew Hutchins will serve as executive producer on the film, which will resume filming with “all original principal cast members” next January.
He explains: “I have no interest in getting involved in allegations or continuing to blame the producers. We are all convinced that Halina’s death was a terrible accident. I am grateful that the producers and the film world have come together to pay tribute to Halina’s latest work.“
In turn, Alec Baldwin also published a statement on his Instagram account, in which he specifies:
“Throughout this difficult process, everyone maintained a specific desire to do what was best for Halina’s child. We are grateful to everyone who contributed to the resolution of this tragic and painful situation..”
Director Joel Souza will return to his post and welcomed the resumption of filming in a press release: “Although it’s obviously bittersweet, I’m glad we’re finishing what Halina and I started together. All my efforts on this film will be in his honour.“.
The western, which also stars Travis Fimmel, Jensen Ackles and Frances Fisher, will resume filming in January 2023.
Source: allocine
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