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Who Is FKA Twigs?
FKA Twigs, born Tahliah Debrett Barnett on January 16, 1988, in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, England, is a multifaceted English artist renowned for her innovative blend of music, dance, and visual art. The 37-year-old singer, songwriter, dancer, and actress has carved a unique space in the entertainment industry with her genre-defying sound and avant-garde aesthetic. Her stage name, “FKA Twigs,” stems from her nickname “Twigs” (inspired by the sound her joints make when she dances) and the prefix “FKA” (Formerly Known As), added due to another artist already using the name Twigs. Rising to fame with her 2012 debut EP, EP1, and her critically acclaimed 2014 album LP1, Twigs has become a cultural icon, known for her ethereal voice, intricate production, and thought-provoking visuals. Her latest album, Eusexua, released in January 2025, has been praised as a “hymn to the healing power of the dancefloor” by The Guardian. Beyond music, Twigs has acted in films like Honey Boy (2019) and The Crow (2024), showcasing her versatility.
Settlement with Shia LaBeouf
In July 2025, FKA Twigs made headlines when she reached a private settlement with her ex-boyfriend, actor Shia LaBeouf, resolving a high-profile lawsuit she filed against him in December 2020. The lawsuit, lodged in Los Angeles Superior Court, accused LaBeouf of sexual battery, assault, and infliction of emotional distress during their relationship from 2018 to 2019, which began after they met on the set of LaBeouf’s semi-autobiographical film Honey Boy. Twigs alleged a pattern of “relentless abuse,” including claims that LaBeouf knowingly gave her a sexually transmitted disease, choked her, and slammed her against a car during a 2019 incident. She sought $10 million in damages, intending to donate a significant portion to domestic abuse charities.
According to court documents obtained by Us Weekly, Twigs, represented by attorney Bryan Freedman, filed to dismiss the case with prejudice on July 21, 2025, meaning she cannot refile the claims. A joint statement from Twigs’ and LaBeouf’s lawyers, shared with outlets like Variety and The New York Times, read: “Committed to forging a constructive path forward, we have agreed to settle our case out of court. While the details of the settlement will remain private, we wish each other personal happiness, professional success, and peace in the future.” The settlement came just months before a scheduled September 2025 trial, following years of legal disputes and delayed depositions. LaBeouf, who denied many of the allegations, acknowledged his struggles with alcoholism and aggression in a 2020 New York Times email, stating, “I have been abusive to myself and everyone around me for years. I’m ashamed of that history and am sorry to those I hurt.” In a 2022 podcast appearance on Real Ones with Jon Bernthal, he admitted to hurting Twigs, crediting her for inspiring him to seek treatment.
A New Romance with Jordan Hemingway
Amid this legal resolution, FKA Twigs has found happiness in a new relationship with British photographer and filmmaker Jordan Hemingway, 33. The couple went public in March 2023, and their romance has since flourished, with Twigs spotted enjoying a PDA-filled European vacation with Hemingway in 2025. Photos published by Daily Mail captured the pair in Ibiza, Spain, in July 2025, where Twigs, in a vibrant red bikini, and Hemingway, in navy swim trunks, shared kisses and laughter on a yacht. Their chemistry was evident as they danced and relaxed under the Mediterranean sun. Earlier in the year, they attended Paris Fashion Week together, spotted at the Balmain show, with Twigs stunning in a sheer gold ensemble and Hemingway in a tailored black suit. Their affectionate moments, including hand-holding and playful glances, were widely shared on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
In a March 2024 Vogue interview, Twigs opened up about her relationship with Hemingway, saying, “I’ve kissed a few frogs to get there, but I feel that Jordan listens to me and opens me up in a way that no one really has ever been able to.” She emphasized her sensitivity to his non-public status, noting, “When I’m with somebody who’s not in the public eye in the way I am, I’m conscious of everything I can do to make that situation as comfortable as possible because I’ve been on the other side of it.” This reflects her growth and intentionality in navigating love after past challenges.
Twigs’ Journey of Healing and Artistry
Twigs’ relationship with Hemingway marks a new chapter following the emotional toll of her experience with LaBeouf. In the same Vogue interview, she spoke candidly about the lasting impact of the alleged abuse, stating, “Being abused changes the whole of your nervous system. Because my window of tolerance is now much smaller than it used to be, my body manifests stress in quite extreme ways.” Her resilience shines through in her art, with Eusexua channeling her healing process into music that celebrates liberation and self-discovery. Despite canceling her U.S. tour in spring 2025 due to visa issues, Twigs continues to captivate audiences with her innovative performances and bold creative vision.
Her earlier relationships, including a two-year engagement to actor Robert Pattinson (2015–2017) and a brief romance with The 1975’s Matty Healy (2020–2022), also shaped her public narrative. However, her connection with Hemingway appears to be a grounding force, offering a sense of stability and mutual respect. Unlike her past high-profile romances, Hemingway’s lower public profile allows Twigs to explore love away from intense media scrutiny, though their European getaways have certainly caught attention.
A Look Back at Twigs’ Career
FKA Twigs’ career began as a backup dancer in music videos for artists like Jessie J and Kylie Minogue, but she quickly transitioned to center stage with her music. Her debut album LP1 (2014) earned a Mercury Prize nomination, and her 2019 album Magdalene was lauded for its emotional depth. Twigs’ acting credits include Honey Boy, where she met LaBeouf, and The Crow, showcasing her ability to cross artistic boundaries. Her work often explores themes of vulnerability, empowerment, and identity, resonating with fans worldwide.
Moving Forward
As FKA Twigs embraces her relationship with Jordan Hemingway and closes the chapter on her legal battle with Shia LaBeouf, she continues to redefine herself both personally and artistically. Her European vacation with Hemingway, filled with love and light, contrasts with the darker moments of her past, highlighting her strength and capacity for renewal. Fans have taken to X to express admiration for her resilience, with one user noting, “Twigs deserves all the happiness after what she’s been through.” While the details of her settlement with LaBeouf remain private, her focus on healing, love, and creativity suggests a bright future. Whether she’s dazzling on the dancefloor or sharing tender moments with Hemingway, FKA Twigs remains a force of inspiration, proving that even after hardship, joy and art can flourish.
