Major Controversies Surrounding Tommy Lee: A Detailed Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 21, 2025

Controversies are a part of history. Explore the biggest scandals linked to Tommy Lee.

Tommy Lee (born Thomas Lee Bass) is an American musician best known as the drummer and co-founder of the iconic heavy metal band Mötley Crüe. Beyond his work with Mötley Crüe, Lee formed the rap metal band Methods of Mayhem and has also released solo musical projects. He is known for his energetic and flamboyant drumming style and his prominent presence in pop culture and entertainment.

Sections (4)

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

1986: Start of Horse Deaths at Calgary Stampede

Since 1986, 50 horses have died during the Calgary Stampede's chuckwagon races, leading to Tommy Lee's protest in 2013.

1995: Tape Recorded

In 1995, Tommy Lee and Pamela Anderson videotaped their sexual activities while on a houseboat on Lake Mead, Arizona.

1996: Battery Charges

In 1996, Tommy Lee had pleaded no contest to criminal charges of battery against a Jewish photographer after Lee attacked the man outside the Viper Room.

October 1997: Arrest for Instigating a Riot

In October 1997, Tommy Lee, along with Nikki Sixx, was arrested in North Carolina after instigating a riot during the 1997 concert at Greensboro Coliseum.

1997: Release of Stolen Video

In 1997, the video of Tommy Lee and Pamela Anderson's sexual activities was stolen in 1995, released on the internet, and became a prime example of viral pornography.

1998: Lawsuit over Swastika Tattoo

In 1998, Tommy Lee faced a lawsuit when he allegedly exposed a right-facing Nazi swastika tattoo on his arm to public scrutiny.

1998: Jail Time for Assaulting Pamela Anderson

In 1998, Tommy Lee served six months in county jail after pleading no contest to kicking Pamela Anderson while she was holding their son Dylan.

May 2000: Jail for Probation Violation

In May 2000, Tommy Lee served five days in jail for violating his probation by drinking alcohol.

June 16, 2001: Drowning in Lee's Swimming Pool

On June 16, 2001, 4-year-old Daniel Karven-Veres drowned in Tommy Lee's swimming pool while attending a birthday party for Lee's 5-year-old son, Brandon.

April 2003: Lee Cleared in Drowning Lawsuit

In April 2003, Tommy Lee was cleared by a jury in the negligence lawsuit filed by Daniel Karven-Veres' parents following the drowning incident in his swimming pool.

September 2007: Fight at MTV Video Music Awards

In September 2007, Tommy Lee was involved in a fight with Kid Rock at the MTV Video Music Awards ceremony, resulting in Lee being ejected and Kid Rock being cited for assault.