FKA Twigs has filed a new lawsuit against Shia LaBeouf, alleging an earlier settlement included an “unlawful” non-disclosure agreement tied to her past sexual battery claims, which were resolved in 2025.
The singer and producer, born Tahliah Debrett Barnett, previously accused her former partner of physical, mental, and emotional abuse.
In a lawsuit first brought in 2020, Barnett alleged LaBeouf attacked her on multiple occasions, including claims that he “strangling” her once and threw her against a car during an argument.
“I was left with PTSD [post-traumatic stress disorder] from that, which again is just something that I don’t think we really talk about as a society just in terms of the healing when leaving, and how much work that has to be done to recover, to get back to the person that you were before.”
LaBeouf has repeatedly denied the allegations, though he has previously expressed regret for the pain he caused.
According to a new lawsuit obtained by Variety, Barnett’s legal team argues that LaBeouf “extracted a settlement” that included terms they say violate California’s Stand Together Against Non-Disclosure Act.
The suit also alleges the actor filed a “secret arbitration complaint” in an effort to obtain money over what he claims was a breach of that settlement.
A 2025 interview Barnett gave to The Hollywood Reporter is central to the new dispute, with the filing alleging LaBeouf’s arbitration claim is aimed at the remarks she made in that piece.
When asked if she felt “safe” after the relationship ended, Barnett responded:
“No, I wouldn’t say I feel safe.
“I feel really passionate about being involved with organizations such as Sistah Space and No More, to help survivors in any way that I can.
“I think it’s less about me at this point and more about looking forward. Just, you know, moving on with my life.”
In the new complaint, Barnett’s lawyers say she was effectively pushed into bringing the latest claims because of what they describe as LaBeouf’s “erroneous, preposterous legal position”.
“LaBeouf’s campaign of intimidation and abuse of the legal system denigrates not just Mr. Barnett but every survivor of sexual abuse in this State.
“As the California Legislature has made clear, survivors should have the right to tell their stories without fear or coercion, and California law does not and must not allow abusers and bullies to silence them through secret agreements containing unconscionable, unlawful gag orders.”
Mathew Rosengart, Barnett’s attorney, said the filing is intended to correct what he claims was an improper outcome, while also standing up for other victims who lack the means to fight similar battles.
“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”
“In so doing, she seeks to ensure that survivors of sexual misconduct are not bullied or silenced like she was.”
If you are experiencing domestic violence, please know that you are not alone. You can talk in confidence 24 hours a day to the national domestic violence helpline on 1.800.799.SAFE (7233) 24/7. You can find a list of local resources here.