Shia LaBeouf's Mardi Gras Bar Crawl Sparks Controversy

Actor's disruptive behavior at New Orleans establishments raises questions about celebrity conduct in public spaces.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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Actor Shia LaBeouf's highly visible bar crawl during Mardi Gras in New Orleans has sparked a citywide conversation. From attempting to take over bartending duties to reportedly being asked to leave establishments, LaBeouf's actions have raised questions about celebrity behavior, public perception, and the boundaries of acceptable conduct during public celebrations.

Why it matters

LaBeouf's Mardi Gras escapades highlight a growing tension between celebrity culture and the expectations placed upon public figures. The incident raises questions about accountability, particularly for individuals with a history of public struggles, and underscores the delicate balance between welcoming visitors and maintaining the integrity of local establishments.

The details

Reports indicate LaBeouf's behavior progressed from amicable interactions with staff on Thursday to more boisterous behavior later in the weekend. At Ms. Mae's, a 24/7 dive bar, he reportedly arrived without cash or a shirt and was described as 'somewhat belligerent' after asking, 'Do you know who I am?' The actor also tried to take over bartending duties at Ms. Mae's and attempted to apply a credit card at a cash-only bar, prompting a bartender to quip, 'Why don't you move back and dig holes?' - a reference to his role in the 2003 film Holes. At another establishment, 45 Tchoup, he dipped his card but didn't sign, resulting in a gratuity being added to his bill.

  • LaBeouf was observed frequenting bars in New Orleans' Uptown neighborhood beginning on Thursday leading up to Fat Tuesday.
  • On Fat Monday, LaBeouf was seen wearing a striking red top hat and layered scarves, leaning into the revelry.

The players

Shia LaBeouf

An American actor who has publicly discussed his struggles with sobriety and attributed past abusive behavior to alcoholism.

Ms. Mae's

A 24/7 dive bar in New Orleans where LaBeouf reportedly arrived without cash or a shirt and was described as 'somewhat belligerent'.

45 Tchoup

An establishment in New Orleans where LaBeouf dipped his card but didn't sign, resulting in a gratuity being added to his bill.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

This incident highlights the growing tension between celebrity culture and the expectations placed upon public figures, raising questions about accountability and the delicate balance between welcoming visitors and maintaining the integrity of local establishments.