FKA twigs Sues Shia LaBeouf Over NDA Terms Violating California Law
FKA twigs, whose real name is Tahliah Barnett, has initiated a lawsuit against actor Shia LaBeouf in Los Angeles Superior Court. The legal action seeks to prevent LaBeouf from enforcing specific terms of a nondisclosure agreement (NDA) related to a prior settlement between them. Barnett asserts that certain provisions within the NDA violate California law, particularly concerning discussions around sexual violence and alleged abuse.
Background of the Dispute
Months after settling her initial lawsuit against LaBeouf, FKA twigs received an arbitration demand from his legal team in December. LaBeouf alleged a breach of contract and sought damages, claiming she violated the NDA.
The alleged violation stemmed from an interview where Barnett stated, "I wouldn't feel safe" regarding that period of her life. The arbitration demand was subsequently dismissed.
FKA twigs' Current Legal Action
Barnett's current lawsuit is not seeking financial damages. Instead, it aims for a court order blocking LaBeouf from enforcing NDA sections that restrict her from discussing issues of sexual violence and her alleged experiences of sexual abuse by the actor.
"The action seeks to address a wrong and support other victims of sexual and domestic violence, aiming to prevent survivors from being silenced."
Mathew Rosengart, Barnett's lawyer, stated this sentiment in the complaint, underscoring the broader purpose of the legal challenge.
Legal Context: California Laws on NDAs
California law includes specific provisions addressing nondisclosure agreements in cases involving sexual offenses, aiming to prevent the silencing of victims.
The 2016 Law
A 2016 law barred terms in settlements that prevent the disclosure of factual information about sex offenses prosecutable as felonies.
The STAND Act (2018)
The STAND Act, enacted in 2018, further prohibits NDAs in cases of sexual assault, discrimination, and sexual harassment, even those not rising to felony prosecutions. The Act's primary purpose is to deter secret settlements that might conceal misconduct by powerful individuals.
The lawsuit explicitly claims that the NDA terms, which restrict Barnett from discussing both her personal experiences and the broader issue of sexual abuse, violate the STAND Act. LaBeouf's legal team had previously argued the STAND Act was inapplicable because Barnett's 2020 lawsuit alleged sexual battery, not sexual assault—an argument Barnett's current lawsuit describes as "legally-erroneous."
Prior Lawsuit and Allegations
Barnett and LaBeouf reached a settlement last year for a lawsuit in which she accused him of "relentless abuse." The original complaint detailed allegations of continuous verbal and mental abuse, escalating to physical violence.
Specific incidents cited included LaBeouf allegedly slamming Barnett against his car and strangling her. It was also stated that a loaded rifle was kept by their bedside during their relationship.
At the time the 2020 complaint was filed, LaBeouf released a statement acknowledging his actions:
"I have no excuses for my alcoholism or aggression, only rationalizations. I have been abusive to myself and everyone around me for years. I have a history of hurting the people closest to me. I'm ashamed of that history and am sorry to those I hurt."
Recent Developments Concerning LaBeouf
LaBeouf currently faces battery charges in New Orleans following an altercation at a bar. He was accused of causing a disturbance, and one alleged victim characterized the confrontation as a hate crime, citing a homophobic slur.
Barnett is represented by Mathew Rosengart in this legal action.