Jeremy O. Harris, the acclaimed playwright and actor known for his role in Emily in Paris, has been held in detention in Japan for nearly three weeks following his arrest on suspicion of drug smuggling.
Airport Arrest and Alleged Substance
The 36-year-old American was taken into custody by officials at Naha Airport in Okinawa on November 16. According to multiple reports, the incident occurred when customs officers inspected his luggage and allegedly discovered a crystalline substance concealed within his tote bag.
Authorities state that the material subsequently tested positive for MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy. The weight of the substance was reported to be approximately 780 milligrams, which is considered significantly more than a typical single dose for personal use.
Legal Proceedings and Career Impact
Prosecutors in Okinawa have now received a formal criminal complaint from customs, moving the case closer to potential formal charges. It remains unconfirmed whether Harris has entered a plea or secured legal representation in Japan.
His detention has already impacted his professional schedule. Harris was slated to appear at the Red Sea International Film Festival in Saudi Arabia to promote the film Erupcja, in which he stars opposite pop singer Charli XCX. His appearance was quietly removed from the festival programme without public explanation from organisers.
Strict Japanese Drug Policies
Japan enforces some of the world's strictest anti-narcotics laws. Authorities routinely pursue cases involving even minor quantities of illegal substances and can hold suspects for extended periods during investigations.
While Japan does not impose the death penalty for drug offenses—unlike some neighbouring nations—convictions can still result in lengthy prison sentences of several years. Harris, a Yale School of Drama graduate famed for the record-breaking Broadway play Slave Play and his work on HBO's Euphoria, remains in custody as the inquiry continues.
