Jeremy O. Harris released after weeks in Japanese jail

The playwright and actor was arrested in Okinawa on November 16.

By Drew Gillis  |  December 9, 2025 | 2:11pm
Screenshot: The Daily Show/YouTube
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Jeremy O. Harris released after weeks in Japanese jail

Jeremy O. Harris has been released from jail in Japan, The New York Times reports. The Slave Play writer was arrested on November 16 for alleged drug smuggling after he landed in Okinawa from Taiwan allegedly possessing 780 milligrams of ecstasy. Officers found the drugs in his carry-on bag as he went through customs. News of the arrest broke this past weekend. 

Japanese officials didn’t say whether Harris had been charged, but his representatives said that he was released without charge and plans to stay in Japan to conduct research for an upcoming project. Drug laws in Japan are very strict; the Times reports that he could have faced up to seven years in prison if found guilty. 

Harris was nominated for the Tony Award for Best Play in 2018 for Slave Play. He’s since become known for co-producing season 2 of Euphoria, co-writing Zola with Janicza Bravo, and for a recurring acting role on Emily In Paris.

 
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