Actor Shia LaBeouf Converts to Catholicism

LaBeouf was confirmed at New Year's Eve Mass presided over by Capuchin Franciscan friars.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Actor Shia LaBeouf, known for his on-screen roles and off-screen troubles, has converted to Catholicism after being confirmed on New Year's Eve at a Mass presided over by Capuchin Franciscan friars. The Capuchin Franciscans-Western American Province announced the news, stating that LaBeouf "has embarked on a profound spiritual journey that has led him to embrace the teachings of the Catholic Church."

Why it matters

LaBeouf's conversion to Catholicism is notable given his past struggles with alcoholism and abuse allegations. His decision to fully enter the Church is seen as a testament to his desire to grow in his relationship with God and live out the Gospel values.

The details

The sacramental ceremony was held at Old Mission Santa Inés Parish in Solvang, California, the same friary where LaBeouf trained for months for his role as the Italian saint Padre Pio in a 2022 film. LaBeouf's confirmation sponsor, Capuchin friar Brother Alexander Rodriguez, said LaBeouf "would not have become a Catholic if he had not gone through the personal difficulties and sins that we know about."

  • LaBeouf was confirmed at a New Year's Eve Mass in 2025.

The players

Shia LaBeouf

An American actor known for his roles in films such as "Transformers" and "Indiana Jones and the Crystal Skull", as well as his off-screen troubles including alcoholism and abuse allegations.

Capuchin Franciscan friars

A Catholic religious order of men inspired by Saint Francis of Assisi, whose life mission is to serve the poor and live the Gospel "through fraternity, simplicity, and contemplative prayer."

Brother Alexander Rodriguez

LaBeouf's confirmation sponsor, a Capuchin friar who said LaBeouf "would not have become a Catholic if he had not gone through the personal difficulties and sins that we know about."

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What they’re saying

“The Capuchin Franciscan friars are overjoyed to welcome him into the fold and witness his deep commitment to his faith journey.”

— Capuchin Franciscans-Western American Province (Facebook)

“His decision to fully enter the Church is a testament to his sincere desire to grow in his relationship with God and live out the Gospel values.”

— Capuchin Franciscans-Western American Province (Facebook)

“God seems to specialize in finding the lost. Jesus himself said, 'I have come not for the righteous but for sinners.' So, forgiveness is always available; redemption is always possible.”

— Bishop Robert Barron (The Associated Press)

The takeaway

LaBeouf's conversion to Catholicism after his personal struggles highlights the power of faith and redemption, and the Catholic Church's ability to welcome those seeking spiritual growth and a deeper relationship with God, even in the face of past difficulties.