Shia LaBeouf Says Three Co-Stars Saved His Career and Life

Shia LaBeouf’s story has never been simple. He’s been in the spotlight since he was a teenager, and over the years, his name has been associated with critically acclaimed performances and personal controversies.

But now, the 38-year-old actor is opening up about something more personal: his fight to stay sober and the surprising circle of people who helped him get there.

LaBeouf has spoken publicly before about his issues with alcohol. His 2015 arrest for public intoxication was just one highly visible moment in a long struggle that played out both in the headlines and behind the scenes.

He’s also faced serious allegations of abuse from his ex-partner, musician FKA Twigs—allegations that further complicated his public image and led to increased scrutiny of his personal life. Despite all of this, LaBeouf is still working in the industry.

His new film, Henry Johnson, is now in theaters, though early reviews have been mixed, with a 54% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. But for LaBeouf, simply being in a place where he can act again and be clear-headed while doing it seems like the real milestone.

In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, LaBeouf shared how three fellow actors—Mel Gibson, Sean Penn, and Josh Brolin—played a critical role in helping him through some of his lowest points.

Shia LaBeouf has candidly chronicled his path to sobriety.

According to LaBeouf, these men didn’t just offer advice from a distance; they stepped in and showed up in real, personal ways.

“[Mel Gibson] held my hand when I was really struggling,” LaBeouf said. “Dude really stepped up for me in big ways.”WireImage He called all three actors, saying: “Him, Sean Penn, James Brolin—these guys got me to sobriety. They surrounded me and kept me alive.”

It wasn’t just about addiction support, either. LaBeouf described how Penn initially encouraged him to turn the Henry Johnson script into a play—something he admits terrified him.

“Sean also showed up and motivated me to do this as a play. I was scared as hell when this thing started,” he said.

What stood out most for LaBeouf was the feeling of being supported by people he had long admired.

“There were a bunch of guys that I looked up to who just started popping up,” he said. “I had never, ever felt that kind of love—not like that.”

That sense of community, of being held up by people who had walked their rocky paths, seemed to make a big difference. It gave him a reason to keep going, even when everything felt impossible.

The Power of Support Networks

Dr. Barbara Fredrickson, a leading researcher in positive psychology, emphasizes the critical role that supportive relationships play in overcoming personal challenges. She notes that social support can significantly enhance mental resilience, which is crucial for individuals like LaBeouf who have faced addiction and mental health struggles.

In her studies, Fredrickson found that positive interactions can literally reshape our physiological responses to stress, helping individuals navigate tough transitions with greater ease. Surrounding oneself with understanding friends and family is essential for recovery.

Shia LaBeouf has named three Hollywood actors as his key influences.

Looking back, LaBeouf seems profoundly aware of how much ground he still has to cover.

“I hope my whole life is about squaring things and getting it right. It’s what I want to do with the rest of my life,” he said. “And there are a lot of things to get right.”

Still, his words show a cautious gratitude, recognizing that not everyone gets second chances in this industry or in life.

“I’m blessed that I still have this craft and I’m still allowed to do it at a high level with the best. It feels like a miracle,” he said.

He also touched on how spirituality has become a significant part of his recovery.

“It’s all part of the same thing—God’s everything or nothing. I believe that,” he said. “Dave and I have big God talks. I’ve been to temple with him. He’s been to church with me. It’s been deep dives for both of us.”Getty Images

No matter how Henry Johnson is received, the real story lies in LaBeouf’s progress. Getting to a place where he can show up, sober and focused, is already a significant achievement.

For someone who’s faced public meltdowns, legal troubles, and deeply personal battles, the fact that he’s still standing, creating, and trying to set things right says more than any critic ever could.

Therapists often recommend practical methods for managing recovery, especially for high-profile individuals facing public scrutiny. For example, establishing a daily routine focused on self-care—such as regular exercise, mindfulness, and journaling—can create a solid foundation for sobriety.

Dr. John Gottman, a renowned relationship expert, points out that investing in emotional intelligence and communication skills can further strengthen personal relationships, which are vital during recovery. By fostering open dialogue with loved ones, individuals are more likely to build a supportive environment that encourages lasting change.

Healing Approaches & Techniques

Shia LaBeouf's story illustrates the profound impact of community and support in personal transformation. As research consistently highlights, recovery from addiction is not a solitary journey but a collective effort that thrives on empathy and understanding. The insights from experts like Dr. Barbara Fredrickson and the American Psychological Association reinforce that fostering healthy relationships and engaging in structured self-care practices can significantly enhance one's likelihood of success. This holistic approach not only aids in recovery but also enriches life overall.