Shia LaBeouf is once again at the center of controversy — and this time, it’s his own words sparking backlash.
The 39-year-old actor is facing heavy criticism after saying “gay people scare me” while attempting to explain his recent arrests during Mardi Gras in New Orleans.
LaBeouf was first arrested on February 17 after allegedly getting into a fight outside a bar during the city’s annual celebrations. He was charged with two counts of battery. Days later, on February 26, he was arrested again in connection with the same incident after a judge was informed of alleged homophobic remarks made during the altercation. A third battery charge was added, and he was required to post $5,000 bail.
In a wide-ranging interview with investigative journalist Andrew Callaghan on Channel 5 News — released just hours before his second arrest — LaBeouf blamed the fight on what he described as unwanted attention from men.
“I’ll be honest with you, big gay people are scary to me,” he said. “When I’m standing by myself and three gays are next to me, touching my leg, I get scared. I’m sorry. If that’s homophobic, then I’m that.”
He continued with remarks that many viewers quickly labeled offensive and bizarre, saying he was “good with gay” but didn’t want it “in my lap.”
Later in the interview, LaBeouf attempted to soften his comments, admitting he had been drinking and calling much of what he said “nonsense.” He also acknowledged he was wrong to get physical.
“I am wrong for touching anyone. Ever,” he said. “And that’s the end of my statement on this whole s—.”
The reaction online was swift. Social media users blasted the comments as harmful and deeply disappointing. Some accused him of blatant homophobia, while others suggested his career continues to spiral because of repeated controversies.
Behind the scenes, sources close to the actor reportedly fear his struggles with alcohol are pushing him toward a dangerous path. One friend told Page Six that unless LaBeouf gets sober, the situation could end tragically.
However, LaBeouf does not appear to agree with that assessment. In the same interview, he denied being an addict and said he believes his issues stem more from anger and ego than alcohol. He described it as having a “small man complex,” rather than a substance problem.