Major Controversies Surrounding Shia LaBeouf: A Detailed Timeline

A closer look at the most debated and controversial moments involving Shia LaBeouf.

Shia LaBeouf is an American actor and filmmaker known for his role as Louis Stevens in the Disney Channel series Even Stevens, for which he won a Daytime Emmy Award. He began his film career with a debut in The Christmas Path (1998) and transitioned to directing with short films like Let's Love Hate (2004) and Maniac (2011), the latter featuring rappers Cage and Kid Cudi. LaBeouf has become a recognized figure in both television and film.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

January 2014: Plagiarism Accusations and "Daniel Boring" Project

In January 2014, Shia LaBeouf addressed plagiarism accusations, arguing against restrictive copyright laws. He then tweeted a description of his next project, "Daniel Boring," which was a word-for-word copy of David Clowes' comic description, leading to a cease-and-desist letter from Clowes' attorney.

February 9, 2014: Berlin Film Festival Controversy

On February 9, 2014, Shia LaBeouf caused controversy at the Berlin Film Festival by wearing a brown paper bag over his head with the words "I am not famous anymore" written on it.

June 26, 2014: Arrest at Studio 54

On June 26, 2014, Shia LaBeouf was arrested at New York City's Studio 54 theater for disorderly conduct, harassment, and criminal trespass. He sought outpatient treatment for alcoholism and pleaded guilty to disorderly conduct.

November 2014: #Iamsorry Performance

In November 2014, LaBeouf discussed his #Iamsorry performance, revealing feelings of remorse and shame initially, but later a sense of being cared for. He also disclosed that he was sexually assaulted during the February performance.

July 8, 2017: Arrest in Savannah, Georgia

On July 8, 2017, Shia LaBeouf was arrested in downtown Savannah, Georgia, for public intoxication, disorderly conduct, and obstruction. Bodycam footage revealed him making profanity-laced racial remarks towards police officers. He attributed the incident to his alcohol addiction.

October 2017: Sentencing for Savannah Arrest

In October 2017, Shia LaBeouf pleaded no contest to disorderly conduct and was found guilty of obstruction but not guilty of public intoxication. He was sentenced to probation, fined, and ordered to seek therapy for anger and substance use issues.

August 2020: LaBeouf's Claim of Quitting Don't Worry Darling

In August 2020, Shia LaBeouf claimed he quit "Don't Worry Darling" due to lack of rehearsal time, disputing claims he was fired.

September 2020: Criminal Charges for Altercation

In September 2020, Shia LaBeouf was criminally charged with misdemeanor battery and petty theft for an altercation that occurred in June of that year. He pleaded not guilty.

September 2020: Replacement in Don't Worry Darling

In September 2020, Shia LaBeouf was replaced by Harry Styles in "Don't Worry Darling" due to scheduling conflicts, though Olivia Wilde later stated she fired him due to his "combative energy."

December 2020: Lawsuit by FKA Twigs

In December 2020, Shia LaBeouf was sued by his ex-girlfriend FKA Twigs for sexual battery, assault, and infliction of emotional distress. The lawsuit also detailed allegations that he abused another ex-girlfriend, stylist Karolyn Pho.

May 2021: Diversion Program Completion

In May 2021, a judge ordered Shia LaBeouf into a diversion program, which he completed, leading to the charges against him being dropped.

August 2022: Admission of Harm and Selfishness

Following the lawsuit, and after being removed from Netflix's awards campaign for Pieces of a Woman and starting treatment, in August 2022, Shia LaBeouf admitted on Jon Bernthal's podcast that he had hurt FKA Twigs and described himself as pleasure-seeking, selfish, and inconsiderate.

August 2022: Dispute Over Don't Worry Darling Firing

In August 2022, Variety published emails and messages suggesting Olivia Wilde asked Shia LaBeouf to reconsider quitting "Don't Worry Darling", contradicting her claim that she fired him. Wilde maintained he was replaced, and reports indicated an ultimatum between LaBeouf and Florence Pugh led to Wilde choosing Pugh.