In a significant development in the ongoing legal saga between Shia LaBeouf and FKA Twigs, the singer has filed a new lawsuit against the actor in Los Angeles. This latest action comes on the heels of a previous lawsuit filed by Twigs in 2020, where she accused LaBeouf of ‘relentless abuse’ during their relationship, including allegations of sexual battery, assault, and infliction of emotional distress.
The new lawsuit alleges that LaBeouf attempted to prevent Twigs from speaking out about her experiences of sexual abuse by imposing an ‘illegal’ non-disclosure agreement (NDA). According to Twigs’ attorney, this NDA is not only unlawful but also violates the STAND Act, which prohibits agreements meant to silence victims of sexual assault.
Twigs’ previous lawsuit, which included serious allegations against LaBeouf, was settled in 2025. However, her lawyer claims that the settlement included an NDA that was itself unlawful. “Shia LaBeouf has tried to control Tahliah Barnett for the better part of a decade,” stated FKA Twigs’ attorney, emphasizing the ongoing nature of the abuse allegations.
In a surprising twist, LaBeouf filed a secret arbitration complaint against Twigs in December 2025, alleging that she breached their contract. This move has added another layer of complexity to an already fraught legal battle.
Importantly, Twigs is not seeking financial compensation from this new lawsuit. Instead, her lawyer, Matthew Rosengart, stated, “She files this action to right a wrong, and also on behalf of other women who are the victims of sexual and domestic violence who do not have the resources to speak out and defend themselves from predators.” This highlights the broader implications of her case, as it seeks to empower other survivors.
LaBeouf, who has publicly acknowledged a history of abusive behavior towards women, has denied the claims made by Twigs in her latest lawsuit. His attorney has stated that the allegations are unfounded, marking a stark contrast to Twigs’ assertion of the need for accountability.
The lawsuit seeks a court order to prohibit LaBeouf from enforcing the disputed sections of the NDA, which Twigs argues is an attempt to silence her voice and narrative. Observers note that this case could set a significant precedent in the ongoing fight against sexual violence and the legal mechanisms that protect abusers.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the courts will respond to these allegations and the implications they hold for both parties involved. The legal landscape surrounding sexual assault and abuse is evolving, and this case may play a critical role in shaping future discussions.
As the California Legislature has made clear, survivors should have the right to tell their stories without fear or coercion. This principle underscores the importance of Twigs’ latest legal action and the potential it has to impact the broader conversation around sexual violence.