Olivia Wilde has explained her decision to bring in the “zero a**hole policy”, which reportedly resulted in Shia LaBeouf’s firing.
LaBeouf was originally cast to star in forthcoming drama Don’t Worry Darling, but was dropped after reportedly clashing with director Wilde.
The actor was replaced by Harry Styles, with Promising Young Woman director Emerald Fennell questioning Wilde about the “no a**holes” rule during a conversation with Variety.
Wilde said her policy had come in response to some “really terrible advice” she was given by an established director, who told her to have “three big arguments [a day] that reinstate your power”.
“That is the opposite of my process and I want none of that,” the Booksmart director explained.
“[There’s an] idea that great art has to come from a place of discomfort and anxiety. That the pressure cooker has to get to a point where it can be something intense and valuable in that way. I do think it may be a uniquely female instinct to say, ‘Look, we can be nurturing. And we can multitask.’”
Wilde then added that she never wanted anyone to feel uncomfortable on her set and that the policy put “everybody on the same level”.
“The idea of, don’t bother the actors and keep them separate, and don’t look at them. I think it makes everyone quite anxious,” she said.
Read more: No, Shia LaBeouf, forgiveness is not in your power
In early December, LaBeouf was sued by his former girlfriend, musician FKA twigs, who accused the actor of “relentless abuse”, including sexual battery, assault, and infliction of emotional distress.
Wilde was one of the many female celebrities to show support to Twigs on social media.
Musician Sia, who cast LaBeouf in her video for “Elastic Heart”, voiced her support for Twigs, while alleging that LaBeouf had “conned [her] into an adulterous relationship”.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, you can call the 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline, run by Refuge, on 0808 2000 247, or visit their website here.
