The family of Galina Hutchins, the cinematographer killed on the set of the 2021 film Rust, and Alec Baldwin have reached an undisclosed settlement in a wrongful-death lawsuit against the actor and others, according to a statement released by the actor’s attorney.
The lawsuit, filed in February in Santa Fe, against Baldwin, the film’s production companies, its producers and other key crew members, alleged multiple violations of industry standards.
Matthew Hutchins, the widower of slain on-set Galina Hutchins, will executive produce the film and receive a share of the profits, the statement added.
“We have reached a settlement, subject to court approval, in our wrongful death lawsuit against the producers of Rust, including Alec Baldwin and Rust Movie Productions, LLC. As part of this settlement, our case will be dismissed. Rust, which I am currently executive producing, will resume filming with all of the original core players in January 2023. I am not interested in recriminations or assigning blame (to the producers or Mr. Baldwin). We all believe that Galina’s death was a terrible accident. I’m grateful that the producers and the entertainment community came together to honor Galina’s latest work,” Hutchins said in a statement.
“Throughout this difficult process, everyone maintained a specific desire to do what was best for Galina’s son. We are grateful to everyone who contributed to this tragic and painful situation,” said Alec Baldwin’s attorney, Luke Nikos of Quinn Emanuel. in the statement.
Director Joel Souza, who was also injured during the shooting, is expected to return to the film. “Those of us who were lucky enough to spend time with Galina knew her as extremely talented, kind, creative and a source of incredible positive energy. I wish the world would recognize her in other circumstances, as it certainly would have because of her wonderful work. In my own attempts to heal, any decision to return to finish directing a film could only make sense to me if it was done with Matt and the Hutchins family involved. Although it is certainly bittersweet, I am satisfied that together we will now finish what Galina and I started. All my efforts in this film will be focused on honoring Galina’s legacy and making her proud. I am honored to be able to achieve this on her behalf,” Souza said in a statement.
The attorney for Rust Movie Productions, LLC, Spadone of Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman, said: “We are pleased that the parties have come together to resolve this matter, which, subject to court approval, represents an important step forward in celebrating Galina’s life and honoring her work. “
The lawsuit also alleged that the production companies and producers “cut corners” and “picked the cheapest crew available,” specifically noting that they “knowingly hired a completely unqualified gunner” and required her to split time with a second role as an assistant props. the owner
Deadline first reported news of the settlement.
