TOKYO (AP) — American playwright and actor Jeremy O. Harris, recognized for his Tony-nominated work “Slave Play,” has been arrested in Japan on charges related to the smuggling of ecstasy, as reported by local officials on Saturday.
Harris, 36, was detained at Naha Airport on Okinawa’s southern island on November 16, following alleged violations of Japanese customs law after authorities discovered 0.78 grams (0.0275 ounces) of the crystalline form of MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy, in a tote bag he was carrying. The arrest was confirmed by Tatsunori Fukuda, a spokesperson for Okinawa Regional Customs.
According to Fukuda, Harris had arrived in Japan after departing from London’s Heathrow Airport two days prior. He had made a transit at Taiwan’s Taoyuan International Airport before reaching Naha, where he was reportedly planning to engage in sightseeing. Okinawa is widely known as a resort destination, favored for its temperate climate.
Upon arrest, Harris was conveyed to the Tomishiro police. A criminal complaint was subsequently filed with the Naha District Prosecutors' Office on Thursday, initiating further investigation and consideration for potential indictment. Fukuda mentioned that no additional drugs were located in Harris' luggage and that authorities believe the MDMA was intended for personal use. The case is still under investigation, and further details regarding any statements made by Harris remain confidential.
No immediate comments have been issued by Harris' representatives in response to his arrest.
In Japan, the legal framework allows law enforcement to hold a suspect in custody for a maximum of 23 days prior to an indictment. This pretrial detention period can be extended if the accused chooses to remain silent or contests the charges, a practice that has faced criticism and has been labeled as “hostage justice” by various human rights observers.
Drug smuggling convictions in Japan can carry significant penalties, including lengthy prison sentences.
Harris gained prominence in the theatrical world with “Slave Play,” a project he authored while still pursuing his graduate studies at the Yale School of Drama. The play made its debut off-Broadway in 2018, generating considerable discourse and sparking a petition seeking to halt its performances due to its challenging themes concerning race, class, and sexual dynamics. The production later transferred to Broadway, where it was nominated for a Tony Award for Best Play, although it did not receive the accolade.
In addition to his work in theater, Harris has also appeared in minor acting roles, including a cameo as himself in the rebooted “Gossip Girl” and serving as a co-producer on several episodes of the popular HBO series “Euphoria.”
Mari Yamaguchi, The Associated Press
