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 acclaimed American actor best known for his breakout role as Woody Boyd in the sitcom *Cheers*, earning him an Emmy Award. He has garnered significant recognition for his performances in film, receiving three Academy Award nominations for his roles in *The People vs. Larry Flynt* (Best Actor), *The Messenger*, and *Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri* (both for Best Supporting Actor). Harrelson's career spans diverse genres, solidifying his status as a versatile and respected figure in the entertainment industry.

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

June 1, 1996: Arrest for Hemp Seed Planting

On June 1, 1996, Woody Harrelson was arrested in Lee County, Kentucky, after planting four hemp seeds to challenge the state law distinguishing between industrial hemp and marijuana. He was later acquitted of those charges.

2002: Arrest in London After Taxi Incident

In 2002, Woody Harrelson was arrested in London after an incident in a taxi that ended in a police chase. He was later released on bail, and the case was dismissed after he paid the taxi driver £550.

2006: Incident with Photographer Outside Nightclub

In 2006, an incident occurred outside a Hollywood nightclub involving Woody Harrelson and a TMZ photographer. A video showed Harrelson grabbing a camera and clashing with the photographer, leading to a lawsuit in 2008.

2008: Lawsuit Filed by TMZ Photographer

In 2008, TMZ photographer Josh Levine filed a lawsuit against Woody Harrelson for an alleged attack outside a Hollywood nightclub in 2006. He asked for $2.5 million in damages.

October 2009: Playboy Interview on Theology and the Bible

In October 2009, Woody Harrelson discussed his views on theology and the Bible in an interview with Playboy, expressing skepticism about the Bible's divine origins and seeing it as a man-made instrument for control. He also described himself as having a strong spiritual life in October 2009.

April 2020: Instagram Post Promoting 5G Conspiracy Theory

In April 2020, Woody Harrelson posted on Instagram promoting a conspiracy theory linking 5G networks and COVID-19. The post was later deleted.

May 2022: Statements on Germ Theory and Face Masks

In May 2022, Woody Harrelson stated that he doesn't believe in the germ theory and criticized the use of face masks as a preventative measure against COVID-19, deeming them absurd.