Rust is finally out despite the controversy surrounding it after lead actor Alec Baldwin fatally shot cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on set. The incident happened in 2021, and Halyna’s family claims Alec has yet to apologize. They boycotted the premiere and have issued a statement to slam Alec amid the movie’s release.
The Rust premiere took place this week at the Camemirage Festival in Poland, and it was dedicated to Halyna Hutchins. Alec was absent from the event, but his second victim director, Joel Souza, who survived the shooting with injuries, did an introduction to the Western film.
Organizers honor Halyna Hutchins at ‘Rust’ premiere
Before the Rust premiere continued, there was a moment of silence in memory of Halyna, after which Souza explained his reason for continuing as director despite opting out after the shooting. He only changed his mind after Halyna’s husband, Matthew, urged him to remain in the credits.
Matthew wanted the world to see his wife’s work, to honor every single frame she created. Meanwhile, Halyna’s family still has a civil lawsuit against Alec, who was absolved of the involuntary manslaughter case with prejudice years ago. Alec’s legal team moved to have the suit paused a day before the Rust premiere.
Halyna Hutchins’ family demands an apology from Alec Baldwin
In the statement issued to Fox News Digital, Halyna’s mother, Olga Solovey, says Alec’s refusal to take responsibility for her daughter’s death is causing her more heartache. She also called him out for profiting off Halyna’s death without remorse, hence why she refused to attend the Rust premiere.
The family’s attorney, Gloria Allred, alleged battery, emotional distress, and other charges on behalf of Halyna’s family members last year. She filed the suit naming Alec, Rust producers, and other defendants responsible for the demise of Halyna, who was the breadwinner of her family.