Playwright O. Harris: 23 Days in Japanese Jail

Playwright and actor Jeremy O. Harris has shared details of his recent 23-day detention in Japan. Harris was arrested on November 16, 2025, after arriving in Okinawa. Authorities reportedly found ecstasy in his luggage, leading to his extended detainment without access to legal counsel.

During his incarceration, Harris communicated with investigators through a translator. He asserted that the substance found was not his and resulted from a wedding, and that a drug test administered to him came back negative. Despite his claims, the experience led him to write a book about his ordeal, titled 'Customs.'

Harris described the detention as an unexpected detox from internet addiction, during which he lost 10 pounds, read 23 books, and focused on physical fitness. He characterized the experience as surprisingly beneficial, allowing him to discover a new way of existing with his body at age 36. He was released on December 8, 2025, without any charges filed against him.

Following his release, a representative confirmed that no charges were pressed. Harris shared his story with Whoopi Goldberg for Interview magazine and mentioned ongoing creative projects, including writing a horror movie and considering a Broadway production of his play 'Spirit of the People' with Amber Heard.