Domestic violence

FKA Twigs, Shia LaBeouf Settle Abuse Lawsuit After 5 Years

Published JUL 23 2025

Story

Above: Shia LaBeouf and FKA Twigs attend the 2019 Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah on Jan. 25, 2019. Image credit: David Becker/Getty Images

The Facts

FKA Twigs and Shia LaBeouf settled her 2020 lawsuit alleging sexual battery and emotional distress from their 2018-2019 relationship. She filed to dismiss all claims with prejudice in Los Angeles Superior Court, preventing her from refiling them.
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The New York Times
Rolling Stone
The lawsuit claimed LaBeouf subjected Twigs to "relentless abuse," including physical violence, choking, and isolating her from loved ones. She alleged he exhibited jealous behavior toward waiters and her ex-fiancé, Robert Pattinson.
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The New York Times
Daily Mail
The couple met in 2018 during Twigs' casting in LaBeouf's film "Honey Boy" and dated for about nine months before splitting in 2019. Their relationship reportedly started with LaBeouf's "charm offensive" but allegedly turned into a "living nightmare" of abuse and control.
Deadline
The Journal
BBC News
LaBeouf initially denied many allegations but later acknowledged causing harm, admitting he had "been abusive to myself and everyone around me for years." In 2022, he told Jon Bernthal's podcast that he "hurt that woman" and described himself as "selfish, dishonest, and inconsiderate" during their relationship.
Billboard
The Hollywood Reporter
Vulture
The case faced delays over five years with repeated trial postponements and evidence disputes. A jury trial was set for Sept. 29 before a settlement was reached, with LaBeouf's team claiming Twigs sought $10 million in damages.
EW.com
Vulture
Both parties' attorneys released a joint statement saying they were "committed to forging a constructive path forward" and wished each other "personal happiness, professional success and peace in the future." The settlement terms remain confidential, with lawyers Bryan Freedman representing Twigs and Shawn Holley representing LaBeouf confirming the agreement.
The New York Times
The Daily Beast

Sources Split

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The Spin

Narrative A

This settlement represents justice for a survivor who courageously spoke out against powerful Hollywood abuse. Twigs endured horrific physical and emotional trauma that left her with PTSD, yet she persevered to hold her abuser accountable. The case highlights how even successful artists can become victims of domestic violence and the importance of believing survivors.

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BBC News

Narrative B

LaBeouf has consistently taken responsibility for his actions and sought treatment for his issues with alcoholism and aggression. The prolonged legal battle served its purpose in forcing accountability, and both parties can now move forward constructively. The settlement allows healing without further public litigation.