Major Controversies Surrounding David Carradine: A Detailed Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 24, 2026

Public opinion and media debates around David Carradine—discover key moments of controversy.

David Carradine was a prolific American actor, director, and producer with a career spanning over 200 roles across film, television, and stage. He gained widespread recognition for his role as Kwai Chang Caine, a Shaolin monk, in the television series *Kung Fu* (1972-1975). Carradine's diverse career established him as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Controversies & Scandals

1967: Arrest for marijuana possession

In 1967, after becoming an established actor under the name David Carradine, he was arrested for possession of marijuana.

1972: Nude Playboy spread with Barbara Hershey

In 1972, David Carradine and Barbara Hershey appeared together in a nude Playboy spread, recreating sex scenes from Boxcar Bertha. Hershey gave birth to their son that year.

1974: Affair with Season Hubley and burglary arrest

Around 1974, David Carradine's relationship with Barbara Hershey fell apart after his burglary arrest and his affair with Season Hubley, who had guest-starred on Kung Fu.

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1974: Peyote-Related Incident

In 1974, David Carradine was involved in a peyote-related incident, which negatively affected the ratings of Kung Fu.

1974: Arrest for attempted burglary and malicious mischief

In 1974, at the height of his popularity from Kung Fu, David Carradine was arrested for attempted burglary and malicious mischief after wandering nude around his Laurel Canyon neighborhood under the influence of peyote. He broke into a neighbor's home, and accosted two young women. He pleaded no contest to the mischief charge and was given probation.

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1980: Arrest for marijuana possession in South Africa

In 1980, while filming Safari 3000 in South Africa, David Carradine was arrested for possession of marijuana. He was convicted and given a suspended sentence, claiming he was framed by the apartheid government for dancing with Tina Turner.

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1984: Arrest for driving under the influence of alcohol

In 1984, David Carradine was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol. This was the first of at least two such incidents.

1989: Second DUI arrest

In 1989, David Carradine was arrested a second time for driving under the influence of alcohol. He pleaded no contest and received a harsher-than-average sentence, including jail time, community service, and an alcohol rehabilitation program.

1994: Arrest at Rolling Stones concert

In 1994, while filming Kung Fu: The Legend Continues in Toronto, David Carradine was arrested for kicking in a door at the SkyDome during a Rolling Stones concert. He claimed he was trying to avoid being swarmed by fans.

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2005: Carradine Interview on Kung Fu's Origins

In a 2005 interview, David Carradine disputed the claim that Bruce Lee came up with the idea for Kung Fu.

June 4, 2009: Carradine Found Dead in Bangkok

On June 4, 2009, David Carradine was found dead in a hotel room in Bangkok, Thailand. The cause of death was determined to be accidental death by auto-erotic asphyxiation.