Playwright Jeremy O Harris Walks Free After Japan Drug Arrest
Jeremy O Harris has been released from a Japanese prison after being held on suspicion of drug smuggling. Detained in November, he was freed without charges and intends to remain in Japan for work.
Australian audiences have been following the story of Jeremy O Harris, the acclaimed writer who found himself in hot water in Japan. Harris, best known for his much-talked-about play 'Slave Play', was taken into custody last month after authorities at Naha Airport in Okinawa allegedly found a small amount of MDMA in his bag. The incident occurred on 16 November, with customs officers reportedly discovering 0.78 grams of a crystal substance during a routine check as Harris arrived from the UK via Taiwan for a holiday.
Japanese officials acted swiftly, detaining Harris under the country’s strict Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Act. He spent nearly three weeks behind bars, with the situation drawing attention from both the theatre world and the wider public. The arrest was confirmed by a spokesperson from Okinawa’s regional customs, who said the substance was found in a tote bag belonging to Harris. The playwright’s time in custody was spent at a police station in Tomigusuku City, Okinawa.
Release Without Charges
On 8 December, Harris was released from detention, with police confirming he would not face any charges. A representative for Harris stated,
the playwright has been released without charges
. Despite the ordeal, Harris has decided to remain in Japan, focusing on his writing and research for an upcoming project. His team indicated he’s keen to get back to work, undeterred by the recent events.
Harris’s arrest and subsequent release have sparked plenty of discussion, especially given his high profile in the arts. The writer’s previous works have earned him critical acclaim, including a record number of Tony Award nominations for 'Slave Play'.
Ongoing Projects and Public Attention
Beyond the stage, Harris has made his mark in film and television. He co-wrote the screenplay for the A24 film 'Zola' and was involved in producing several episodes of the second season of HBO’s 'Euphoria'. His latest venture, a role in the film 'Erupcja', recently premiered at the Red Sea Film Festival in Jeddah. Harris was expected to attend the event in Saudi Arabia, where the film, directed by Pete Ohs and starring Charli XCX, made its debut.
Despite the recent drama, Harris appears set to continue his creative work in Japan. The incident hasn’t dampened his enthusiasm for new projects, and he remains a prominent figure in the international arts scene.