Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Woody Harrelson

Public opinion and media debates around Woody Harrelson—discover key moments of controversy.

Woody Harrelson is an American actor best known for his role as Woody Boyd on the sitcom Cheers, for which he won an Emmy Award. He has garnered critical acclaim throughout his career, including three Academy Award nominations: Best Actor for The People vs. Larry Flynt, and Best Supporting Actor for The Messenger and Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri. Harrelson's career spans television and film, showcasing his versatility as a performer.

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

June 1, 1996: Harrelson arrested for planting hemp seeds

On June 1, 1996, Woody Harrelson was arrested in Lee County, Kentucky, after symbolically planting four hemp seeds to challenge the state law that did not distinguish between industrial hemp and marijuana. He was later acquitted.

2002: Harrelson arrested after taxi incident in London

In 2002, Woody Harrelson was arrested in London following an incident involving a taxi and a subsequent police chase. He was later released on bail, and the case was dismissed after he compensated the taxi driver.

2006: Alleged attack outside nightclub

In 2006, Woody Harrelson was allegedly involved in an attack outside a Hollywood nightclub against TMZ photographer Josh Levine, leading to a lawsuit in 2008.

2008: TMZ photographer sues Harrelson

In 2008, TMZ photographer Josh Levine filed a lawsuit against Woody Harrelson, alleging an attack outside a Hollywood nightclub that had occurred in 2006. The suit sought $2.5 million in damages.

April 2020: Harrelson promotes 5G conspiracy theory

In April 2020, Woody Harrelson promoted on Instagram the conspiracy theory that claims a link between 5G networks and COVID-19. The post was later deleted.

May 2022: Harrelson questions germ theory and mask efficacy

In May 2022, Woody Harrelson expressed skepticism towards the germ theory and deemed the use of face masks against COVID-19 "absurd", arguing they would cause carbon monoxide poisoning.