Apple Studios is currently facing a lawsuit from Native American costume designer Kristi Marie Hoffman, who alleges exclusion from award consideration for her work on the film “Killers of the Flower Moon.” Hoffman claims the studio retaliated against her after she previously raised concerns about racial discrimination on set.
In 2022, Hoffman filed a discrimination complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, which resulted in a confidential settlement. Despite her significant contributions as an assistant costume designer on the film, Hoffman asserts that Apple Studios tried to diminish her role and impact.
Hoffman was initially credited as the first assistant costume designer and even nominated for the Costume Designers Guild Awards. However, she alleges that lead designer Jacqueline West requested the removal of her credit. The Costume Designers Guild later deemed this credit removal as improper.
In the extensive promotion and award campaigns for “Killers of the Flower Moon,” Hoffman contends that Apple Studios, in collaboration with West and the Guild, sidelined her contributions, despite her being responsible for much of the research and costume design.
Hoffman, with a career in film and television since 2004, felt a deep connection to “Killers of the Flower Moon” due to its focus on Native American history. However, she endured discriminatory behavior on set and was ultimately overlooked and discredited during the film’s promotion, with the spotlight being placed on West and O’Keefe for work she had done.
The lawsuit filed in the Los Angeles Superior Court highlights Hoffman’s dedication and the subsequent mistreatment she faced, seeking recognition and justice for her work and efforts on the film.
