Jeremy O. Harris, the Tony-nominated playwright behind “Slave Play,” has been arrested in Japan on suspicion of attempting to smuggle illegal drugs into the country. Harris was stopped on Nov. 16 at Naha Airport in Okinawa after customs officials said they found roughly 0.78 grams of a crystal substance that tested positive for MDMA in his bag.
Japanese customs officers immediately detained Harris on suspicion of violating the country’s Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Act. Reportedly, Okinawa regional customs later filed a criminal accusation with the regional prosecutor’s office to begin formal charging proceedings. Local police confirmed Harris remains in custody as the case moves forward.
If convicted under Japan’s strict narcotics laws, foreign nationals can face significant prison time. It’s been reported that similar cases have included several years behind bars. Authorities said even small amounts of illegal drugs are treated seriously.
Harris, 36, is best known for his controversial work, “Slave Play,” and is a writer, producer, and performer. His stage work also includes “Daddy: A Melodrama,” “Black Exhibition,” “Yell: A Documentary of My Time Here,” and “Spirit of the People,” the latter made its world premiere this summer at Williamstown Theatre Festival.
As a producer, Harris has created several play commissioning initiatives, and co-produced “Ain’t No Mo’” and “The Sign in Sidney Brustein’s Window” on Broadway, and “Invasive Species” at Off-Broadway’s Vineyard Theatre. On screen, he produced and co-wrote “Zola,” and acted in “Gossip Girl,” “Emily in Paris,” and “The Sweet East.” He has also produced “Irma Vep” and “Euphoria.”
Harris’ representatives did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
AloJapan.com