Singer FKA twigs has filed a new lawsuit against actor Shia LaBeouf, alleging he is attempting to prevent her from discussing alleged sexual abuse experienced during their relationship and broader issues of sexual violence.
Legal Battle Resurfaces
The lawsuit follows a 2020 claim by Tahliah Barnett, known professionally as FKA twigs, accusing LaBeouf of months of “physical, sexual and mental abuse.” A jury trial initially scheduled for September 2025 was avoided when the parties reached a settlement. According to the new lawsuit, this settlement was reached to allow LaBeouf to “avoid a public and embarrassing jury trial and potentially enormous damages for his conduct.”
The current legal action centers on what Barnett’s lawyer, Matthew Rosengart, claims was an “unlawful NDA” included in the settlement. Rosengart asserts the NDA aimed to prevent Barnett from discussing not only her own experiences but also “sexual assault and sexual abuse more generally and as an important topic of public concern.”
Dispute Over Public Statements
The renewed legal conflict stems from an arbitration demand LaBeouf filed in December 2025. This demand alleged a breach of the initial settlement after Barnett stated in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter that she didn’t “feel safe” following their relationship. Although that arbitration was dismissed, Barnett is now seeking a judicial remedy, arguing the NDA represents LaBeouf’s “continuing efforts to silence” her “as a sexual abuse survivor.”
Barnett is not seeking financial compensation in this new lawsuit. Rosengart stated that Barnett “has nothing to gain from this case either professionally or financially” and is acting to “right a wrong” and support other survivors “who do not have the resources to speak out and defend themselves from predators.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the original allegations against Shia LaBeouf?
In 2020, FKA twigs (Tahliah Barnett) sued Shia LaBeouf, accusing him of months of “physical, sexual, and mental abuse.”
What is the basis of the new lawsuit?
The new lawsuit claims that a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) included in the settlement of the original lawsuit is unlawful and attempts to silence FKA twigs from discussing sexual abuse.
Is FKA twigs seeking financial compensation in this new lawsuit?
No, FKA twigs is not seeking financial compensation. Her lawyer states she is acting to “right a wrong” and support other survivors.
As this case progresses, it could potentially set a precedent regarding the enforceability of NDAs in cases of sexual abuse, and may influence future legal strategies employed by survivors. It remains to be seen how the court will rule on the legality of the NDA and whether it will ultimately allow FKA twigs to speak freely about her experiences.
