Shia LaBeouf says ‘gay people are scary to me’ while claiming homophobia led to Mardi Gras arrest
Shia LaBeouf’s Mardi Gras Arrest Linked to Comments on Gay Individuals
Shia LaBeouf’s recent arrest in New Orleans has sparked discussion over his remarks about gay individuals. During a Saturday interview with YouTuber Andrew Callaghan, the actor described his fear of “big gay people” as a factor in the incident. “If three gay individuals are near me and touching my leg while I’m alone, I feel scared,” he explained. “I’m sorry— if that’s considered homophobia, then I’m guilty of it,” he said in a
quoting his own words
.
LaBeouf also mentioned, “I find big gay people intimidating,” according to the interview. A spokesperson for LaBeouf has not yet responded to inquiries about the event. The actor, known for roles in “Transformers” and the Disney Channel series “Even Stevens,” was detained during Mardi Gras celebrations and accused of striking two individuals outside a Royal Street establishment. Police later added that he “assaulted another person— punching him in the nose” and was subdued until officers arrived.
While the exact trigger of the event remains unclear, LaBeouf hinted during the interview that his actions might have been influenced by his discomfort with the presence of gay individuals. “I’m fine with gay people, but I prefer them to stay away from me— not in my lap,” he said in a
quoting his own words
. He acknowledged being intoxicated at the time, stating, “That’s why— I was drunk and it’s Mardi Gras. All my words are just random.”
LaBeouf was arrested after receiving hospital treatment for “unknown injuries” and charged with two counts of simple battery, per authorities. This incident marks his second legal encounter in recent years. In 2017, he was arrested for public drunkenness and made racist remarks to police, as reported by The Associated Press. The charges were later dropped. Earlier this year, he faced a lawsuit from his ex-partner, British singer FKA Twigs, who claimed he choked her and transmitted a sexually transmitted disease. The case was resolved out of court last year.
His comments during the Mardi Gras arrest reflect a pattern of biased statements. While the actor apologized for his remarks, citing his struggles with addiction, the incident has reignited debates about his views on LGBTQ+ communities.
Reporter
Matt Lavietes is a reporter for NBC News.
