Halyna Huchins’ husband to produce remainder of Rust film as Alec Baldwin reaches settlement

A settlement has been reached in the wrongful death lawsuit filed by the family of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, who was killed on the set of Rust last year.

The family filed the lawsuit back in February, alleging the team working on the film 'cut corners' and 'chose to hire the cheapest crew available', as well as hiring a 'wholly unqualified armorer', all which which they claimed 'led to the death of Halyna Hutchins’.

Hutchins was killed during the filming of the western movie after a loaded gun Alec Baldwin was pointing towards the camera accidentally went off.

ZUMA Press Inc/Alamy Stock Photo

However, the actor claimed the gun went off without him pulling the trigger.

The case also alleged that there was a violation of industry standards, which dictate a rubber or a prop gun should be used for this type of scene, and that there was no need for a real gun to be involved.

Now, an undisclosed settlement has been reached in the case and filming will resume.

According to statements issued today (5 October), going forward, husband Matthew Hutchins will act as executive producer on the film, as well as receiving a portion of the profits.

"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.

Cal Vornberger / Alamy Stock Photo

"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," he continued.

Alec Baldwin’s attorney, Luke Nikas, also issued a statement following the settlement, writing: "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."

If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677