Alec Baldwin reaches secret settlement as Rust filming resumes
Alec Baldwin and the family of late cinematographer Halyna Hutchins have reached an undisclosed settlement over her tragic death on the set of Rust.
According to a statement released by the actor's attorney, the wrongful death lawsuit filed against Baldwin and others in the production has been settled and closed, with a portion of the profits going to Halyna's husband Matthew, who is now set to be an executive producer on the film.
"We have reached a settlement, subject to court approval, for our wrongful death case against the producers of Rust, including Alec Baldwin and Rust Movie Productions, LLC. As part of that settlement, our case will be dismissed," Matthew Hutchins said in a statement.
"The filming of Rust, which I will now executive produce, will resume with all the original principal players on board in January 2023. I have no interest in engaging in recriminations or attribution of blame (to the producers or Mr. Baldwin)."
"All of us believe Halyna's death was a terrible accident. I am grateful that the producers and the entertainment community have come together to pay tribute to Halyna's final work."
Alec Baldwin's attorney, Luke Nikas of Quinn Emanuel, also said in a statement, "Throughout this difficult process, everyone has maintained the specific desire to do what is best for Halyna's son."
"We are grateful to everyone who contributed to the resolution of this tragic and painful situation."
The film's director Joel Souza, who was also injured during the shooting, is expected to return to the film once production restarts next year.
"In my own attempts to heal, any decision to return to finish directing the film could only make sense for me if it was done with the involvement of Matt and the Hutchins family," Souza said.
"Though certainly bittersweet, I am pleased that together, we will now complete what Halyna and I started. My every effort on this film will be devoted to honoring Halyna's legacy and making her proud. It is a privilege to see this through on her behalf."
Image credits: Getty Images