Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Woody Harrelson

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

Woody Harrelson is a celebrated American actor recognized for his diverse roles across television and film. He gained initial fame as Woody Boyd on the sitcom Cheers, earning a Primetime Emmy Award. Harrelson has received three Academy Award nominations for his performances in The People vs. Larry Flynt, The Messenger, and Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, showcasing his acting range and critical acclaim. His career highlights demonstrate his consistent presence and impact within the entertainment industry.

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

1991: Harrelson protests First Gulf War during college concert tour

In 1991, Woody Harrelson protested against the First Gulf War during a college concert tour in Iowa and Nebraska under the auspices of "Woody Harrelson Educational Tours".

1994: Harrelson wins Golden Raspberry Award for "Indecent Proposal"

In 1994, Woody Harrelson won the Golden Raspberry Award for Worst Supporting Actor for his role in the 1993 film "Indecent Proposal".

June 1, 1996: Harrelson arrested for hemp seed planting in Kentucky

On June 1, 1996, Woody Harrelson was arrested in Lee County, Kentucky, for symbolically planting four hemp seeds to challenge the state law regarding industrial hemp and marijuana. He was later acquitted.

2002: Harrelson condemns President Bush's Iraq war preparations

In 2002, Woody Harrelson wrote an article in The Guardian condemning President George W. Bush's preparations for a US invasion of Iraq as a "racist and imperialist war".

2003: Harrelson speaks out against the 2003 invasion of Iraq

In 2003, Woody Harrelson publicly spoke out against the invasion of Iraq, adding to his history of protesting against military conflicts.

2006: Alleged attack on TMZ photographer by Harrelson outside nightclub

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

2008: TMZ photographer sues Harrelson for alleged attack in 2006

In 2008, TMZ photographer Josh Levine filed a lawsuit against Woody Harrelson for an alleged attack outside a Hollywood nightclub that occurred in 2006.

2013: Harrelson criticizes President Obama on Afghanistan troop withdrawal

In 2013, Woody Harrelson criticized President Barack Obama for failing to withdraw U.S. troops from Afghanistan, comparing him negatively to Richard Nixon.

April 2020: Harrelson promotes 5G-COVID-19 conspiracy theory on Instagram

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

May 2022: Harrelson expresses disbelief in germ theory and criticizes mask use

In May 2022, Woody Harrelson stated that he doesn't believe in the germ theory and criticized the use of face masks against COVID-19, considering it "absurd".