Renowned Playwright Jeremy O. Harris Arrested in Japan on Drug Charges

Jeremy O. Harris, the celebrated playwright behind Slave Play and co-writer of A24s Zola, has been held in Japan for almost three weeks following an arrest on drug-related charges in Okinawa, according to local authorities and international media reports. The 36-year-old was detained on November 16 at Naha Airport after customs officials reportedly discovered 780 milligrams of a crystal substance containing MDMA in his bag. For reference, a typical recreational dose of pure MDMA, or ecstasy, ranges from 75 to 125 milligrams.

Regional customs authorities have filed a criminal complaint with Okinawa prosecutors, advancing the case toward formal charges. Officials have not disclosed whether Harris has entered a plea or arranged legal representation in Japan.

Prior to his detention, Harris was expected to attend Saudi Arabias Red Sea International Film Festival to promote Pete Ohs surreal road film Erupcja, in which he appears alongside pop star Charli XCX. Both Harris and XCX are credited as co-writers and producers of the movie. The festival has not commented on his absence, and he has been quietly removed from the events lineup.

A Yale School of Drama alumnus, Harris gained prominence with Slave Play, the most Tony-nominated play in Broadway history. He has also contributed to television as a co-producer on HBOs Euphoria and as a supervising producer on Olivier Assayas Irma Vep.

Japan is known for strict drug laws, prosecuting even minor possession offenses and often detaining suspects for extended periods without bail. Convictions can carry multi-year prison sentences, although the country does not impose the death penalty for drug crimes. Harris arrest recalls similar cases involving foreign entertainers in Japan, such as Grammy-winning DJ David Morales in 2018 and Paul McCartney, whose 1980 marijuana arrest resulted in a prolonged entry ban.

Author: Grace Ellison