Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Willie Nelson
A closer look at the most debated and controversial moments involving Willie Nelson.
Willie Nelson is an iconic American singer-songwriter and guitarist, central to the outlaw country movement, rebelling against Nashville's conservative sound in the late 1960s. His albums 'Shotgun Willie,' 'Red Headed Stranger,' and 'Stardust' cemented his status as a leading figure in country music. Beyond music, Nelson has appeared in over 30 films, co-authored books, and is an advocate for biofuels and marijuana legalization, showcasing his diverse talents and activism.
1971: Divorce from Shirley Collie
In 1971, Willie Nelson divorced Shirley Collie after she discovered his affair and the birth of a child with Connie Koepke.
1977: Arrest in the Bahamas for Marijuana Possession
In 1977, Willie Nelson was arrested and jailed in the Bahamas after marijuana was found in his luggage; the charges were dropped, but he was banned from returning to the country.
1980: Performance at the White House
In 1980, Willie Nelson performed on the south lawn of the White House, even singing a duet with First Lady Rosalynn Carter, showcasing his cultural impact. In 1980, according to a biography, Nelson also allegedly smoked marijuana on the White House roof.
1990: IRS Seizes Nelson's Assets
In 1990, the IRS seized most of Willie Nelson's assets, claiming he owed $32 million due to unpaid taxes and weak investments.
1994: Marijuana Found in Car
In 1994, Texas Highway patrolmen found marijuana in Willie Nelson's car near Waco, Texas; his court appearance prevented him from attending the Grammy Awards.
2005: Failed Attempt to Name Highway After Nelson
In 2005, a bill to name a section of State Highway 130 after Willie Nelson was dropped due to objections citing his controversial stances and lack of connection to the highway.
2006: Arrested for Possession in Louisiana
In 2006, Willie Nelson, along with his manager and sister Bobbie, were arrested in St. Martin Parish, Louisiana, and charged with possession of marijuana and hallucinogenic mushrooms while traveling to Ann W. Richards' funeral, receiving six months probation.
January 2008: Suit Against the Texas Democratic Party
In January 2008, Willie Nelson filed a suit against the Texas Democratic Party, alleging that the party violated the First and Fourteenth Amendments.
November 26, 2010: Arrested for Marijuana Possession in Sierra Blanca, Texas
On November 26, 2010, Willie Nelson was arrested in Sierra Blanca, Texas, for possession of six ounces of marijuana found in his tour bus; an agreement to pay a fine to avoid jail was later rejected by the judge.
2010: Creation of TeaPot Party
In 2010, after his arrest for marijuana possession, Willie Nelson created the TeaPot party under the motto "Tax it, regulate it and legalize it!".
2010: Doubts Regarding the September 11 Attacks
In 2010, during an interview with Larry King, Willie Nelson expressed his doubts about the official story of the September 11 attacks.
April 20, 2012: Unveiling of Willie Nelson Statue in Austin
On April 20, 2012, a life-size statue of Willie Nelson was unveiled in Austin, Texas, at the entrance of Austin City Limits' new studio, with Nelson performing "Roll Me Up and Smoke Me When I Die" at the ceremony.
June 2018: Nelson deplored Trump administration family separation policy
In June 2018, Willie Nelson publicly deplored the Trump administration's family separation policy, expressing his disapproval of the controversial practice.
September 29, 2018: Nelson offers free concert in Austin supporting Beto O'Rourke
On September 29, 2018, Willie Nelson performed a free concert in Austin supporting Beto O'Rourke's Senate campaign, and performed "Vote 'Em Out," later released as a single.
