Shia LaBeouf’s Spiritual Journey: From Legal Troubles to Confirmation and Aspirations of Deaconhood
In recent years, actor Shia LaBeouf’s life has been marked by legal challenges and personal struggles, with the most recent allegations of abuse from a former partner. However, the actor has undergone a period of reflection and conversion to Catholicism, culminating in his official confirmation at the Old Mission Santa Inés Parish in Solvang, California, this past Sunday.
The Capuchin Franciscans-Western American Province expressed support for LaBeouf’s decision, stating on their Facebook page, “His decision to fully enter the Church is a testament to his sincere desire to grow in his relationship with God and live out the Gospel values.”
Capuchin friar Brother Alexander Rodriguez, LaBeouf’s confirmation sponsor, revealed to the Catholic News Agency (CNA) that the actor has plans to become a deacon “sometime in the future.” Rodriguez explained that LaBeouf’s interest in this role emerged during the filming of the 2022 movie “Padre Pio,” where he portrayed the Italian Capuchin friar who later became a saint.
“He just spontaneously said, ‘I want to become a deacon,’ and he still feels that way,” Rodriguez shared, emphasizing that LaBeouf’s current priority is caring for his daughter, Isabel, whom he shares with partner Mia Goth.
Renowned for his roles in blockbuster films such as “Transformers” and “Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull,” LaBeouf made headlines in 2020 when his ex-girlfriend, FKA Twigs, accused him of physical, mental, and emotional abuse. Following these allegations, LaBeouf sought help and entered a long-term facility. In 2021, he was cast in “Padre Pio,” a role that played a pivotal role in his spiritual journey.
During a conversation with Bishop Robert Barron, who conducted LaBeouf’s confirmation, the actor disclosed that his portrayal of the saint inspired his conversion to Catholicism, a significant shift from his previous identification as an atheist.
As of now, a representative for LaBeouf has not responded to Fox News Digital’s request for comment on this transformative chapter in the actor’s life.