Seth Kenney Sues Alec Baldwin: Claims Scapegoating After 'Rust' Tragedy

In a striking turn of events four years after the tragic fatal shooting on the set of 'Rust', prop supplier Seth Kenney has filed a lawsuit against actor Alec Baldwin. The 35-page complaint, filed on October 24, 2023, in New Mexico, alleges that Baldwin and others have unfairly scapegoated Kenney, damaging his professional reputation and undermining his business operations.

This lawsuit marks the latest development in a complex legal situation stemming from the October 21, 2021 shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins during the filming of 'Rust'. Baldwin, who was handling a prop gun that discharged and caused Hutchins' death, has faced extensive scrutiny and legal challenges since the incident. In 2022, Baldwin was charged with involuntary manslaughter, but those charges were later dropped in April 2023.

In his lawsuit, Kenney claims that his reputation has been adversely affected by Baldwin’s public statements and the broader media narrative surrounding the accident. According to legal experts, public perceptions can significantly impact business relationships in the film industry, leading to decreased opportunities for professionals involved.

Kenney's company, PDQ Arm & Prop, has been involved in the film industry for over two decades, supplying props and firearms for various productions. Prior to the 'Rust' incident, PDQ was noted for its involvement in productions such as 'The Old Way' and 'The Magnificent Seven'. Sources indicate that his side of the story was arguably overlooked due to the sensational nature of events following the shooting.

Legal experts have noted similarities to the aftermath of the 2014 shooting incident involving actor Bruce Lee's son, Brandon Lee, during the filming of 'The Crow'. In that case, legal actions ensued against several parties involved in the production, impacting their careers for years. Similarly, Kenney's case highlights long-lasting ramifications of on-set incidents and the need for rigorous safety protocols in Hollywood.

Baldwin's previous legal entanglements have included a wrongful death lawsuit filed by Hutchins' family, which was settled in October 2022 for an undisclosed amount. Baldwin’s unpredictable career trajectory since then remains a point of discussion among industry watchers, especially given his high-profile return to projects including 'Rust', which is set to resume filming in early 2024.

Kenney’s lawsuit signals significant tensions and unresolved issues within the film industry regarding accountability for safety on set. It underscores the need for comprehensive safety policies to avoid tragedies like the one experienced on the 'Rust' set.

The outcomes of this lawsuit could have implications for other film professionals involved in management and safety legislation, ultimately influencing industry practices going forward. Kenney is expected to seek compensatory damages for loss of business and emotional distress.

As Kenney's case progresses, the film industry will continue to monitor legal fallout from the 'Rust' incident. This situation may shape future negotiations around contracts and liability waivers in Hollywood, as stakeholders assess the balance between accountability and the right to protect one's reputation.