“He has a process that appears to require combative energy in some ways.”
Shia LaBeouf was fired from Olivia Wilde’s “Don’t Worry Darling” before filming began, and she’s now explaining why.
LaBeouf was originally cast to play Florence Pugh’s husband in the film, but he was let go in September 2020. Variety reported in December of that year that the actor violated Wilde’s “no a—hole policy,” was “not an easy guy to work with,” and “displayed poor behaviour and his style clashed with cast and crew.”
Wilde confirmed to Variety that his approach to acting did not mesh well with everyone else on set.
“This is coming from someone who adores his work. His process did not reflect the ethos that I expect in my productions “She elaborated. “He has a process that appears to require combative energy in some ways, and I don’t personally believe that is conducive to the best performances.”
“I believe that the best way to get people to do their best work is to create a safe, trusting environment,” she added.
“Finally, it is my responsibility to protect the production and the cast. That was my responsibility.”
LaBeouf was replaced in the film by Harry Styles, before the actor’s personal life became even more public when FKA Twigs sued him for abuse, which he denied. Last year, he began inpatient treatment.
“A lot came to light after this happened that really troubled me, in terms of his behavior,” added Wilde. “Because I believe in restorative justice, I find myself wishing him health and evolution. But what we really needed for our film was an incredibly supportive energy. I knew that with a film like this, I’d be putting Florence in extremely vulnerable situations, so my top priority was to make her feel safe and supported.”
