Jon Bernthal Reflects on Interviewing Shia Labeouf | Summary and Q&A

Summary

This video clip is from The Joe Rogan Experience, where Joe Rogan discusses the blowback he received after having Shia LaBeouf on his podcast. Despite initial hesitations about interviewing actors, Rogan formed a genuine friendship with LaBeouf while working together on a movie. However, after allegations of abuse against LaBeouf emerged, Rogan faced criticism for giving him a platform. Rogan defends his decision by explaining his intention of being a true friend and offering guidance to LaBeouf in overcoming his struggles.

Questions & Answers

Q: Why did Joe Rogan decide to have Shia LaBeouf on his podcast?

Joe Rogan initially had a rule against interviewing actors on his podcast because there are already plenty of podcasts focused on actors. However, after forming a friendship with Shia LaBeouf while working together on a movie, Rogan felt compelled to bring him on the show. Rogan saw LaBeouf as a genuine, talented actor who was willing to go to extremes for his craft.

Q: How did Joe Rogan view Shia LaBeouf's actions during their movie collaboration?

Initially, Joe Rogan perceived Shia LaBeouf's behavior as excessive and attention-seeking. LaBeouf would go to great lengths, such as pulling out his tooth and cutting his face, to fully immerse himself in his character. However, as Rogan got to know him better, he realized that LaBeouf's dedication to his craft came from a genuine desire to create impactful art.

Q: How did Joe Rogan feel about the allegations of abuse against Shia LaBeouf?

When Joe Rogan learned about the allegations of physical and emotional abuse against Shia LaBeouf, he was deeply disappointed and heartbroken. Rogan drew a red line when it comes to violence against women or children, and he couldn't support someone who crossed that line. Despite this, he still wanted to reach out to LaBeouf and offer support and guidance as a friend.

Q: Why did Joe Rogan decide to have a conversation with Shia LaBeouf on his podcast?

Joe Rogan reached out to Shia LaBeouf after hearing that he was going through personal changes, such as having a baby and getting married. Rogan believed that it was important to have another conversation with LaBeouf, as a friend, to check in on his well-being and discuss his actions. Rogan recognized that being a friend meant holding someone accountable and encouraging personal growth.

Q: Did Joe Rogan regret having Shia LaBeouf on his podcast?

Joe Rogan did not regret having Shia LaBeouf on his podcast, despite the backlash he received. He stood by his decision because he believed in the intentionality behind the interview. Rogan wanted to show LaBeouf what it means to have a real friend and hoped that their conversation could potentially lead to positive change and growth for LaBeouf.

Q: How did Joe Rogan respond to the criticism he received for having Shia LaBeouf on his podcast?

Joe Rogan acknowledged that he faced an enormous amount of backlash and criticism for having Shia LaBeouf on his podcast. Many people were upset that he gave a platform to someone accused of abusive behavior. However, Rogan explained that he weighed the comments from those who criticized him against the positive impact that the interview could have had on others who may be struggling with similar issues.

Q: What did Joe Rogan hope to achieve by having Shia LaBeouf on his podcast?

Joe Rogan's intention in having Shia LaBeouf on his podcast was not to exonerate or save him but to offer support and guidance. He wanted to address the root causes of LaBeouf's actions and encourage him to seek help and change his behavior. Rogan believed that there should be a conversation about helping young men who commit abuse and steering them towards the path of healing and growth.

Q: How did Joe Rogan handle the criticism he received for his decision?

Joe Rogan acknowledged that there were people who believed he was the worst person for having Shia LaBeouf on his podcast. However, he also received messages from individuals who expressed gratitude and claimed that the interview had a positive impact on their lives. Ultimately, Rogan chose to focus on the intentionality behind his decision rather than the opinions of others.

Q: Did Joe Rogan regret airing the interview with Shia LaBeouf?

No, Joe Rogan did not regret airing the interview with Shia LaBeouf. Despite the initial backlash and criticism, Rogan believed that the interview served a purpose. He stood by his decision and the intention behind it, even if it meant facing negative comments from some individuals.

Q: What is Joe Rogan's main takeaway from the experience?

Joe Rogan's main takeaway from the experience was the importance of being a true friend. He recognized that being a friend means not turning your back on someone when they make deplorable choices, but rather showing them the error of their ways and helping them grow. Rogan believed that his intention to be a friend to Shia LaBeouf and offer guidance was more significant than the criticism he received.

Takeaways

Joe Rogan's decision to have Shia LaBeouf on his podcast sparked controversy due to the allegations of abuse against LaBeouf. However, Rogan defended his decision by emphasizing his intention of being a true friend and offering guidance to LaBeouf. Despite the criticism, Rogan believed in the potential positive impact the interview could have had on others struggling with similar issues. Ultimately, Rogan's takeaway from the experience was the importance of being a friend and supporting others in their journey towards growth and redemption.