Content Warning: This article about Shia LaBeouf discusses sexual assault. If you or someone you know is affected by the following story, you are not alone. To speak to someone, you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14, or 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732.
Shia LaBeouf has landed his next film role, cast by acclaimed director Abel Ferrara.
LaBeouf is set to portray the role of Italian Saint Padre Pio, with the film focusing on his earlier years.
Variety spoke to Ferrara on his upcoming film, where he revealed that the film is set in Italy post-World War I, where Saint Padre Pio has become a saint.
Ferrara said, “We’re doing a film about Padre Pio, he’s a monk from Puglia. It’s set in Italy right after World War I. He’s now a saint, he had stigmata.”
“He was also in the middle of a very heavy political period in world history,” Ferrara continued. “He was very young before he became a saint, so Shia LaBeouf is going to play the monk.”
Willem Dafoe has also reportedly got the call to join the film’s cast, not surprising as the actor is a regular Ferrara collaborator.
Off the set, LaBeouf is still currently embroiled in a sexual battery lawsuit with previous girlfriend FKA Twigs.
Last year, Twigs sued LaBeouf for sexual battery, sexual assault and emotional distress, with all accusations being denied by the accused.
Back in July this year, it was reported by NME that both parties had “engaged in productive settlement negotiations”.
Twigs’ lawyer stated, “The parties have been engaged in productive settlement negotiations and are in the process of arranging for an early mediation.”
Last year following the accusations, Sia spoke out in defence of Twigs, claiming that LaBeouf is a “pathological liar”.
She said, “I too have been hurt emotionally by Shia, a pathological liar, who conned me into an adulterous relationship claiming to be single.”
“I believe he’s very sick and have compassion for him AND his victims. Just know, if you love yourself- stay safe, stay away.”
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