Shia LaBeouf says ‘gay people are scary to me’ while claiming homophobia led to Mardi Gras arrest
Shia LaBeouf says ‘gay people are scary to me’ while claiming homophobia led to Mardi Gras arrest
Actor’s Mardi Gras incident linked to fear of ‘large gay individuals’
Shia LaBeouf, the 39-year-old actor known for roles in “Transformers” and “Even Stevens,” recently shared his perspective on the Mardi Gras arrest in New Orleans. During an interview with YouTuber Andrew Callaghan, he revealed his belief that his fear of “big gay people” played a role in the event. According to police, LaBeouf was accused of striking two individuals on Royal Street during the festivities.
“When I’m standing alone and three gays are nearby touching my leg, I get scared,” he stated. “I’m sorry. If that’s homophobic, then I’m that. Yeah.” “I’ll be honest with you, big gay people are scary to me,” LaBeouf added.
His representative did not respond to a comment request promptly. The incident occurred while LaBeouf was under the influence, and he acknowledged that his statements during the event might not have been entirely rational. “I’m good with gay — be gay over there, though. Don’t be gay in my lap,” he said, suggesting a possible tension with gay individuals in his vicinity.
LaBeouf was taken into custody after leaving the hospital, where he received treatment for “unknown injuries.” He was charged with two counts of simple battery. This was not his first legal encounter; in 2017, he was arrested for public intoxication and made racist remarks to officers, as reported by The Associated Press. LaBeouf later apologized, citing his addiction struggles, and the charges were dismissed.
2020 lawsuit adds to actor’s history of controversial remarks
Earlier in 2020, LaBeouf faced a legal action from his former partner, British singer FKA Twigs. She alleged he had choked her and knowingly transmitted a sexually transmitted disease. The case was resolved through an out-of-court settlement.
While the exact cause of last week’s incident remains unclear, LaBeouf’s comments imply a connection between his fear of gay individuals and the altercation. His remarks have sparked debate about the influence of homophobia on his actions during the Mardi Gras celebration.
Matt Lavietes is a reporter for NBC News.
