Hollywood actor Sean Penn has found himself at the centre of controversy and a potential fine after being photographed smoking indoors during the 2026 Golden Globe Awards ceremony, an act that is illegal in California. The incident occurred just days before the two-time Oscar winner was seen enjoying a relaxed outing with his much younger girlfriend, Valeria Nicov.
A Costly Nicotine Fix at the Golden Globes
On Sunday evening, viewers and fellow attendees spotted the 65-year-old cinematic legend lighting a cigarette inside the Beverly Hilton, a strictly smoke-free venue. Penn was photographed smoking next to celebrities including Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Hudson. This brazen act flouted a state law that has prohibited indoor smoking since 1995.
According to the Los Angeles Fire Department, fines for such an infraction can range from $81 to $324, with a typical first-time fine being around $100. Fans on social media platform X were quick to brand the long-time smoker as 'arrogant' for ignoring public health protocols at the star-studded event.
This is not the first time Penn's smoking habits have caused a stir. Previously, the actor was criticised for chain-smoking through a news conference at the 2024 Marrakech International Film Festival.
Controversy Gives Way to Couple's Day Out
Following the headlines, Penn appeared to put the drama behind him, stepping out for some retail therapy with his girlfriend, Valeria Nicov, 30. The couple, who have been romantically linked since September 2024, were seen holding hands in a rare public display of affection.
They appeared in high spirits during their laid-back excursion. Penn opted for a smart-casual look with a navy blazer over a white button-down shirt, while Nicov turned heads in a timeless all-black ensemble.
A History of Headline-Making Behaviour
Penn, who has had high-profile relationships with Madonna, Robin Wright, and Charlize Theron, is no stranger to controversy. His history of fiery temper and confrontations dates back decades.
In 1985, he physically attacked two journalists in Nashville. This began a pattern that led to a prison sentence two years later. While on probation during the filming of 'Colors', Penn assaulted an extra on set, Jeffrey Klein, in 1987. He was arrested and sentenced to 60 days in jail, ultimately serving 33 days.
More recently, in a joint interview with Julia Roberts last year, Penn critiqued cancel culture. He discussed her film 'After The Hunt', stating he found it 'refreshing' and remarked, 'I think shame is underrated these days.'
Beyond his controversies, Penn is a decorated actor, having won Academy Awards for 'Mystic River' (2004) and 'Milk' (2009). In a notable act of solidarity in November 2022, he gave one of his Oscar statuettes to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
