Instead of attending his first official court meeting, Alec Baldwin has waived his appearance and submitted a plea through the court’s filings claiming “not guilty” for involuntary manslaughter. (Variety).

This is the result of the infamous shooting on October 21, 2021, where Baldwin fatally shot cinematographer Halyna Hutchins while on the set of their film Rust. Baldwin denies any claims of “criminal negligence” by the Santa Fe D.A., as he is adamant that the fault lies with those who did not ensure the gun was safe to handle.

Such a role falls onto Hannah Gutierrez Reed. As the armorer on the film’s set, she is accused of involuntary manslaughter. This is due to her not indicating that the gun was loaded with fake bullets. Unlike Baldwin, she will not be waiving her court appearance.

While the actor is currently free, he is expected to face approximately eighteen months in prison if he is convicted. He is expected to go to Montana to resume filming for “Rust.” Hutchins’ husband, Matthew Hutchins, will become an executive producer on the film as a settlement between Matthew and the original producers. The film is also anticipated to be a tribute to Hutchins, as this was her final work.