Japan Frees Playwright Jeremy O Harris After Three Weeks Detention Over Drug Smuggling Allegations

Jeremy O Harris Released in Japan Amid Drug Smuggling Investigation

American playwright and actor Jeremy O Harris has been released in Japan three weeks after his arrest for alleged drug smuggling. Authorities detained Harris on November 16 at Naha airport in Okinawa after customs officials reportedly discovered a small amount of MDMA in his carry-on.

Japanese law enforces some of the world’s strictest drug regulations, carrying severe penalties for possession. Prosecutors in Japan maintain a notably high conviction rate for narcotics offenses.

Harris, recognized for his Tony-nominated play Slave Play and his role in Emily in Paris, was found with 0.78 grams of a substance containing the stimulant MDMA. Okinawa police official Tetsuya Shimoji confirmed Harris’s release on December 8 while prosecutors continue their investigation.

Neither the local police nor the Naha District Public Prosecutors Office has disclosed whether formal charges were filed. A representative for Harris stated he was released without charges and plans to remain in Japan to work on a creative project.

The playwright traveled to Okinawa via Taiwan, coming from Britain, for tourism purposes. Local broadcaster RBC noted his itinerary before the arrest.

Harris’s Slave Play gained significant acclaim, receiving 12 Tony Award nominations in 2018, although it did not win any. He also contributes as a co-producer on HBO’s acclaimed series Euphoria.

The ongoing investigation highlights Japan’s strict approach to drug-related matters. It remains unclear if Harris is permitted to leave Japan while the case proceeds.