'Transformer' series and other films made Hollywood's 'problem child' Shia LaBeouf (39) — well known for those works — has again drawn controversy by blaming his recent bar brawl on his "homophobia."
On Feb. 28 (local time), Page Six and other foreign outlets reported that in a recent interview with YouTube channel "Channel 5," Shia LaBeouf opened up about the arrest that occurred on Jan. 17 during the New Orleans Mardi Gras festival.
In the interview he said, "To be honest, big gay men are a source of fear for me," delivering a shocking remark. LaBeouf added, "If I'm standing alone and three gay men come up touching my legs, I get scared. If this is homophobia, I'll gladly be called that," showing an attitude that sought to justify his hateful remarks.
LaBeouf claimed the situation felt like being sexually assaulted, and that the resulting physical conflict led to his arrest. He added, "I don't have complaints about gay people, but I can't tolerate actions like sitting on my lap."
He particularly mentioned his mental health issues. LaBeouf confessed, "When my masculinity is challenged, a trigger is activated," and said, "My father was raped by a cousin in the past and always imposed that story on me," attributing the cause of his aggressive tendencies to his past.
Earlier, LaBeouf was arrested on charges of throwing punches while hurling homophobic slurs at the other party during the assault, and the other man is reported to have suffered a fractured nasal bone.
The court ordered LaBeouf to post $100,000 (about 130 million won) bail and undergo rehabilitation treatment, but he has refused admission, saying, "My problem is not alcohol but anger, ego and a 'small man complex.'" The New Orleans police have issued an additional arrest warrant for him in connection with the case.
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