Shia LaBeouf Arrested in New Orleans, Accused of Homophobic Slurs

The actor was charged with two counts of simple battery after a bar fight during Mardi Gras celebrations.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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According to a police report, actor Shia LaBeouf shouted homophobic slurs during a fight in New Orleans that resulted in his arrest. LaBeouf was charged with two counts of simple battery after allegedly hitting multiple people at a bar in the French Quarter during Mardi Gras celebrations. One of the victims claimed LaBeouf's attack was motivated by his appearance, including wearing makeup and lipstick.

Why it matters

This incident adds to LaBeouf's history of public outbursts and legal troubles, raising concerns about his mental health and behavior. The use of alleged homophobic language also highlights ongoing issues of intolerance and violence against LGBTQ+ individuals, even from high-profile figures.

The details

Police say LaBeouf 'became irate and aggressive throughout the night' at the Royal Street Inn & R Bar, near the French Quarter. He is accused of hitting multiple people with a closed fist, including a man named Jeffrey Damnit who claims LaBeouf attacked him because of his appearance in makeup and lipstick. Video footage shows LaBeouf shoving one person to the ground and striking another, causing a possible dislocated nose. LaBeouf was arrested, treated at a hospital, and charged with two counts of simple battery upon his release.

  • The incident occurred during Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans earlier this week.

The players

Shia LaBeouf

A 39-year-old American actor known for films like Transformers and Honey Boy, who has a history of public outbursts and legal troubles.

Jeffrey Damnit

One of the individuals LaBeouf is accused of attacking, who claims LaBeouf's assault was motivated by his appearance in makeup and lipstick.

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What they’re saying

“He hit me, he connected a few times with punches, he pushed me a few times.”

— Jeffrey Damnit, Victim (Associated Press)

“That's just somehow something that set him off, angered him and gave him a direction for his anger. This guy wants me to be dead because I wear makeup. It's a screwed up thing.”

— Jeffrey Damnit, Victim (Associated Press)

What’s next

LaBeouf is expected to appear in court in the coming weeks to face the charges against him.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of addressing mental health issues and intolerance, even among high-profile public figures. It underscores the need for greater understanding, support, and accountability when it comes to addressing problematic behavior.