Actor Shia LaBeouf found himself in handcuffs instead of catching beads during New Orleans' famed Mardi Gras celebrations this week, following a series of violent incidents allegedly fueled by a prolonged drinking binge.
Violent Confrontation Leads to Arrest
LaBeouf, 39, was arrested by New Orleans police shortly after midnight on Tuesday following multiple physical altercations at the Royal Street Inn and Bar in the Faubourg Marigny neighborhood adjacent to the French Quarter. According to authorities, the actor attempted to punch a manager at the establishment before striking another patron who intervened to assist.
The situation escalated further when LaBeouf allegedly punched another man in the nose, prompting bystanders to physically restrain him until law enforcement arrived on the scene. Following the incidents, LaBeouf was transported to a local hospital for evaluation before being discharged, arrested, and formally charged with two counts of simple battery.
Week-Long Bender Preceded Arrest
Multiple sources indicate LaBeouf had been on an apparent drinking spree in New Orleans since the previous Thursday, with various bartenders across the city reporting concerning behavior. One anonymous bartender told The Hollywood Reporter that the actor had been "terrorizing the city" during his stay.
Video footage surfaced early Tuesday showing LaBeouf shirtless and engaged in verbal exchanges with others before being attended to by paramedics. The actor was scheduled to appear in a New Orleans court later that same day as Mardi Gras festivities were reaching their peak.
Celebrity Behavior at Local Bar
On Sunday night, LaBeouf reportedly arrived at Ms. Mae's, a 24/7 dive bar located at the corner of Magazine Street and Napoleon Avenue in Uptown New Orleans. According to bouncer Robert Skuse, the actor appeared without a shirt or cash, accompanied by others while clearly intoxicated.
The timing coincided with the Bacchus Super Krewe parade rolling along nearby St. Charles Avenue, drawing thousands of revelers with their "go-cups" - the plastic or paper containers that allow legal public alcohol consumption in New Orleans. Skuse reported that LaBeouf attempted the classic "Do you know who I am?" approach, which many patrons recognized, leading to requests for group Instagram photos that the actor initially accommodated.
The situation deteriorated when LaBeouf attempted to serve as a "celebrity bartender," prompting staff to ask him to leave the establishment. This incident occurred just days before his eventual arrest for battery charges.
History of Alcohol Struggles
LaBeouf has publicly acknowledged struggles with alcoholism in the past, and this recent incident appears to represent a concerning relapse during what should have been a celebratory time in one of America's most festive cities. The actor's behavior during Mardi Gras week has drawn significant attention, highlighting the challenges of maintaining sobriety in environments known for excessive celebration.
The arrest comes as New Orleans police typically increase their presence during Mardi Gras to manage the influx of visitors and maintain public safety during the city's most famous annual celebration. LaBeouf's case will now proceed through the local judicial system as the actor faces potential consequences for his alleged actions during what was meant to be a festive occasion.
