Jeremy O. Harris Detained at Japan Airport Due to Alleged Discovery of Ecstasy in His Bag

Renowned playwright and actor Jeremy O. Harris was taken into custody in Japan last month after airport customs officials reportedly discovered Ecstasy in his luggage, according to reports from The New York Times. Harris, widely recognized for his 2018 play Slave Play, has been held on Okinawa since November 16 on suspicion of attempting to bring illegal substances into the country.

It was only on December 4 that Japanese customs formally referred Harris to prosecutors in Naha, initiating the official charging process.

Harris arrived in Okinawa from Taiwan, and during a routine inspection at Naha Airport, authorities reportedly found 780 milligrams of MDMA in his carry-on bag. He was immediately arrested for violating Japans strict Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Acts.

Local police in Tomigusuku, near Naha, confirmed that Harris remains in detention but did not disclose whether he has admitted to the allegations. Japan is known for its stringent anti-drug policies, and a conviction could result in a prison sentence of up to seven years.

Slave Play earned 12 Tony Award nominations and established Harris as a prominent figure in contemporary theater. In addition to his writing, he has taken on various acting roles, including appearances on the reboot of Gossip Girl, a recurring role in Emily in Paris, co-starring in The Sweet East, and acting alongside Charli XCX in Pete Ohs upcoming film Erupcja. He also co-wrote the 2021 film Zola and contributed to the second season of Euphoria.

Author: Maya Henderson