Actors Who Have Been Arrested

Many high profile actors have encountered legal troubles that resulted in their arrest and subsequent booking. These incidents range from minor infractions during their youth to more serious allegations involving domestic issues or substance abuse. While some stars managed to move past their legal history and maintain successful careers others faced significant professional setbacks. The public often follows these stories closely as they navigate the complexities of fame and accountability.

Robert Downey Jr.

Robert Downey Jr. faced multiple legal challenges during the late nineteen nineties and early two thousands. He was arrested on several occasions for drug related charges and weapons possession. These legal troubles led to a court mandated stint in a state treatment facility and a period of incarceration. The actor successfully rebuilt his career after achieving sobriety and eventually landed the career defining role in ‘Iron Man’. His story is often cited as one of the most significant professional comebacks in Hollywood history.

Hugh Grant

Hugh Grant was arrested in nineteen ninety five for lewd conduct in a public place. Los Angeles police officers took him into custody following an incident in a parked car on Sunset Boulevard. The actor was in the city to promote his film ‘Nine Months’ when the arrest occurred. He received a fine and was placed on probation after pleading no contest to the charges. Grant addressed the incident openly during high profile television interviews shortly after his release from police custody.

Charlie Sheen

Charlie Sheen has been arrested several times throughout his career for various offenses including domestic violence and drug possession. One notable arrest occurred in Aspen during two thousand nine following an altercation with his then wife. The actor has frequently made headlines for his legal issues and public outbursts while starring in ‘Two and a Half Men’. Despite several attempts at rehabilitation his personal life continued to impact his professional standing in the industry. He has remained a controversial figure in Hollywood due to these repeated interactions with the law.

Shia LaBeouf

Shia LaBeouf has faced numerous arrests for public intoxication and disorderly conduct. One high profile incident took place during a Broadway performance of ‘Cabaret’ where he was removed by police for disruptive behavior. He was also arrested in Georgia while filming ‘The Peanut Butter Falcon’ after an altercation with a police officer. The actor has since sought treatment for substance abuse and has discussed his legal issues in various interviews. His career has seen a shift toward independent cinema following these public legal challenges.

Ezra Miller

Ezra Miller was arrested several times in Hawaii for disorderly conduct and harassment. The actor faced additional legal scrutiny regarding a burglary charge in Vermont. These incidents occurred while Miller was preparing for the release of the major blockbuster film ‘The Flash’. Public concern regarding the behavior of the actor led to several statements from the studio and the performer. Miller eventually entered a plea deal for the trespass charge and committed to mental health treatment.

Mel Gibson

Mel Gibson was arrested for driving under the influence in Malibu during the summer of two thousand six. During the arrest the actor made several controversial statements that were recorded by the responding officers. This incident significantly damaged his public image and led to a temporary decline in his acting opportunities. He later starred in and directed several projects like ‘Hacksaw Ridge’ to rebuild his reputation in the film community. The arrest remains one of the most widely discussed celebrity legal incidents of the decade.

Mark Wahlberg

Mark Wahlberg was arrested in nineteen eighty eight for a violent assault on two men when he was a teenager. He was originally charged with attempted murder but the charge was later reduced to felony assault. The actor served forty five days of a two year sentence in a correctional facility for his actions. He has since spoken about his deep regret regarding the incident and sought a formal pardon later in life. Despite his criminal record he successfully transitioned from a music career to starring in films like ‘The Departed’.

Matthew McConaughey

Matthew McConaughey was arrested in nineteen ninety nine after police responded to noise complaints at his home in Austin. Officers found the actor dancing naked and playing bongo drums which led to his detention. He was initially charged with possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia but those charges were eventually dropped. The actor ended up paying a fifty dollar fine for violating a local noise ordinance. This humorous legal incident has become a popular anecdote in the history of his career.

Nicolas Cage

Nicolas Cage was arrested in New Orleans during two thousand eleven on charges of domestic abuse battery and disturbing the peace. The incident occurred after a public argument with his wife in the French Quarter. He was released on bond and the charges were eventually dropped by the district attorney. The actor has maintained a prolific career starring in projects like ‘The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent’. This legal episode did not seem to slow down his frequent output of independent and studio films.

Sean Penn

Sean Penn was arrested in nineteen eighty seven for assaulting a film extra on the set of ‘Colors’. He was sentenced to sixty days in county jail for the incident after violating his probation from previous legal issues. The actor was also involved in several physical altercations with paparazzi throughout the nineteen eighties. These events contributed to his reputation as a volatile and intense performer in the film industry. Penn later transitioned into directing and high profile humanitarian work alongside his acting career.

Christian Bale

Christian Bale was arrested in London during two thousand eight following an alleged altercation with his mother and sister. The incident took place at the Dorchester Hotel just before the premiere of ‘The Dark Knight’. He was released without charge after being questioned by the police for several hours. The authorities eventually decided that there was insufficient evidence to proceed with any legal action against the actor. Bale has largely avoided public discussion of the event and continued his successful career in major films.

Bill Murray

Bill Murray was arrested at Chicago O’Hare International Airport in nineteen seventy on his twentieth birthday. Port Authority police discovered nine pounds of marijuana in his luggage after he joked to a passenger about carrying illegal substances. He was convicted and sentenced to probation for the offense which occurred before he rose to fame. This early legal trouble did not hinder his path to becoming a legendary comedic actor in films like ‘Ghostbusters’. He remains one of the most beloved figures in American comedy despite this youthful indiscretion.

Vince Vaughn

Vince Vaughn was arrested in Manhattan Beach during two thousand eighteen for driving under the influence and resisting arrest. The actor was stopped at a sobriety checkpoint and reportedly refused to cooperate with the officers. He was eventually convicted of a reduced charge of reckless driving and sentenced to probation. Vaughn has since continued to work on television and film projects including the series ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’. This incident was a rare legal complication for an actor typically known for his professional consistency.

Terrence Howard

Terrence Howard has been arrested on several occasions for incidents involving alleged physical altercations. In two thousand one he was arrested for assaulting his first wife and eventually pleaded guilty to disorderly conduct. He faced additional allegations of domestic issues in the years following his initial arrest. Despite these legal challenges he went on to receive critical acclaim for his performance in ‘Hustle and Flow’. His personal life has remained a subject of media scrutiny throughout his time on the television show ‘Empire’.

Wesley Snipes

Wesley Snipes was arrested and charged with tax evasion and failing to file tax returns over several years. Following a high profile trial in two thousand eight he was convicted of three misdemeanor counts. The actor was sentenced to three years in federal prison and began serving his time in two thousand ten. He was released in two thousand thirteen and resumed his acting career with a role in ‘The Expendables 3’. This legal battle was one of the most significant financial crimes involving a Hollywood star.

Kiefer Sutherland

Kiefer Sutherland was arrested for driving under the influence in two thousand seven while he was starring in ’24’. Since he was already on probation for a previous DUI the actor was sentenced to forty eight days in jail. He served his time at the Glendale City Jail and was praised by officials for his cooperative behavior. The actor has been open about his struggles with alcohol and the impact it had on his legal record. He successfully returned to television and music following the completion of his sentence.

Tom Hardy

Tom Hardy was arrested as a teenager for joyriding in a stolen car and possessing a firearm. These youthful legal troubles occurred during a period when the actor struggled with substance abuse and behavioral issues. He has credited his time in the legal system and subsequent recovery with helping him focus on his craft. The actor eventually achieved worldwide fame for his roles in ‘Mad Max: Fury Road’ and ‘The Revenant’. His past experiences often inform the intense and complex characters he portrays on the screen.

Danny Trejo

Danny Trejo spent many years in and out of the California prison system before becoming a famous actor. He was arrested for various offenses including armed robbery and drug possession during his youth. While incarcerated he became a champion boxer and entered a twelve step program to change his life. After his release he was discovered on a film set and began a long career playing tough characters in films like ‘Machete’. He is now a well known advocate for drug rehabilitation and youth intervention programs.

Josh Brolin

Josh Brolin was arrested in two thousand eight at a bar in Shreveport during the filming of ‘W’. He and several crew members were taken into custody following a physical altercation that involved local law enforcement. The charges against the actor were later dropped by the local authorities. He was also arrested in two thousand thirteen for public intoxication on New Year’s Eve in California. Brolin has since spoken about his decision to stop drinking and focus on his physical health and career.

Armie Hammer

Armie Hammer was arrested in Texas during two thousand twelve for possession of marijuana. Border patrol agents found a small amount of illegal substances in his vehicle at a checkpoint. He spent a brief period in a county jail before being released on bond. The charges were eventually dismissed as the amount was within a specific legal threshold. The actor later faced different career challenges following unrelated personal controversies that surfaced in two thousand twenty one.

Chris Pine

Chris Pine was arrested in New Zealand during two thousand fourteen for driving under the influence. He was stopped by police after attending a wrap party for the film ‘Z for Zachariah’. The actor pleaded guilty to the charges and was ordered to pay a fine and had his New Zealand driving privileges suspended. He expressed regret for the incident and cooperated fully with the local authorities. Pine has since maintained a clean legal record while starring in major franchises like ‘Star Trek’.

Dustin Diamond

Dustin Diamond was arrested in two thousand fourteen following a stabbing incident at a bar in Wisconsin. The actor who was known for his role in ‘Saved by the Bell’ was charged with several felonies. He served three months in jail after being convicted of carrying a concealed weapon and disorderly conduct. This legal trouble was one of several public controversies that marked his later years. Diamond passed away in two thousand twenty one following a brief battle with cancer.

Edward Furlong

Edward Furlong has been arrested multiple times for domestic violence and drug related offenses. The actor who rose to fame in ‘Terminator 2: Judgment Day’ has struggled with addiction for most of his adult life. His legal issues often resulted in jail time or court ordered rehabilitation programs. These recurring arrests significantly impacted his ability to secure major roles in the film industry. Furlong has recently spoken about his long journey toward sobriety and his desire to return to acting.

Gary Busey

Gary Busey was arrested in nineteen ninety five for drug possession after a suspected overdose at his home. The actor has also faced legal issues related to domestic violence and traffic violations over the decades. In two thousand twenty two he was charged with sexual contact and harassment following an incident at a fan convention. These legal encounters have often been documented by the media given his eccentric public persona. Busey continues to appear in various media projects despite these ongoing legal challenges.

James Franco

James Franco was arrested as a teenager for shoplifting designer cologne from local department stores. He and his friends would sell the stolen goods to other students at their high school. This early interaction with the law served as a wake up call for the future actor. He eventually turned his focus toward drama and moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in film. Franco has since starred in numerous acclaimed projects including ‘127 Hours’ and ‘The Disaster Artist’.

Jeffrey Wright

Jeffrey Wright was arrested in two thousand eight while filming the movie ‘W’ alongside Josh Brolin. He was taken into custody following a confrontation with police officers at a bar in Louisiana. The actor was charged with resisting arrest during the chaotic incident involving the film crew. These charges were eventually resolved and did not have a long term impact on his professional life. Wright is now highly regarded for his work in the ‘Westworld’ series and the James Bond films.

Joaquin Phoenix

Joaquin Phoenix was arrested in two thousand six for driving under the influence after his car overturned on a canyon road. A bystander helped the actor escape the vehicle before the police arrived at the scene. He was treated for minor injuries and later entered a rehabilitation program for alcohol abuse. This incident occurred shortly after he received critical acclaim for his role in ‘Walk the Line’. Phoenix has remained sober since that time and went on to win an Oscar for his performance in ‘Joker’.

Johnny Depp

Johnny Depp was arrested in nineteen ninety four for criminal mischief after trashing a room at the Mark Hotel in New York. The actor reportedly caused significant damage during an argument with his then girlfriend Kate Moss. He paid nearly ten thousand dollars in restitution to the hotel to resolve the legal matter. Depp also faced later legal scrutiny during highly publicized defamation trials in the United Kingdom and the United States. Despite these controversies he remains one of the most recognizable stars in the world.

Jonathan Majors

Jonathan Majors was arrested in early two thousand twenty three following an alleged domestic dispute in New York City. He was charged with assault and harassment which led to a high profile trial later that year. The actor was eventually found guilty of reckless assault in the third degree and harassment. This legal outcome resulted in his removal from several major film projects within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Majors was sentenced to a domestic violence intervention program rather than jail time.

Jude Law

Jude Law was arrested in two thousand seven for allegedly assaulting a photographer outside his home in London. The actor was accused of grabbing the camera and hitting the individual during a tense confrontation. He was taken to a local police station for questioning and later released on bail. The charges were eventually dropped after the authorities reviewed the evidence of the encounter. Law has continued to be a prominent figure in international cinema with roles in ‘The Talented Mr. Ripley’ and ‘Fantastic Beasts’.

Mickey Rourke

Mickey Rourke was arrested in two thousand seven for driving under the influence while operating a green Vespa in Miami Beach. He failed a field sobriety test and was taken into custody by local police. The actor has a history of legal issues including a nineteen ninety four arrest for spouse abuse. After a period of career decline he made a major comeback with his performance in ‘The Wrestler’. Rourke has often spoken about the personal demons that contributed to his legal and professional struggles.

Mike Epps

Mike Epps was arrested in two thousand seventeen for his involvement in a physical altercation at a casino in New Orleans. The comedian and actor was charged with battery after a disagreement with another individual turned violent. He was released on bond and later addressed the incident through his legal representatives. Epps has also faced legal scrutiny for bringing a loaded firearm to an airport in two thousand twenty three. Despite these events he remains a popular figure in stand up comedy and film.

Nick Nolte

Nick Nolte was arrested in two thousand two for driving under the influence on the Pacific Coast Highway. His booking photo which featured the actor in a colorful shirt and messy hair became a famous cultural image. He was later sentenced to three years of probation and required to undergo alcohol counseling. The actor has stated that the arrest was a turning point that helped him address his long term substance abuse. He has since continued to work steadily in films such as ‘Warrior’ and ‘Tropic Thunder’.

Paul Walker

Paul Walker was arrested during his teenage years for a misdemeanor offense that he rarely discussed in public. The actor who became famous for ‘The Fast and the Furious’ franchise maintained a relatively private life regarding his past. He was known for his philanthropic work and his passion for car culture throughout his career. His legal history was minimal compared to many of his Hollywood peers. Walker tragically passed away in a car accident in two thousand thirteen.

Randy Quaid

Randy Quaid was arrested multiple times for a variety of unusual charges including squatting and residential burglary. He and his wife were accused of living in the guest house of a home they no longer owned. The couple eventually fled to Canada seeking asylum claiming they were being targeted by a group they called the Star Whackers. These legal issues and public statements led to a significant estrangement from the mainstream film industry. Quaid was once an Oscar nominated actor known for films like ‘The Last Detail’.

Rip Torn

Rip Torn was arrested in two thousand ten after he broke into a closed bank while carrying a loaded firearm. Police found the actor highly intoxicated and disoriented inside the building in Connecticut. He was charged with several felonies including burglary and possession of a weapon. Torn received a suspended sentence and was ordered to undergo intensive alcohol treatment. The legendary actor who starred in ‘The Larry Sanders Show’ passed away in two thousand nineteen.

Stephen Baldwin

Stephen Baldwin was arrested in two thousand twelve for failing to file New York State personal income tax returns. He pleaded guilty to the charges and agreed to pay back hundreds of thousands of dollars in back taxes and interest. The actor avoided jail time by making the required payments within a specific timeframe. He has been vocal about his religious faith and how it has guided him through financial and legal difficulties. Baldwin continues to appear in independent films and reality television programs.

Thomas Jane

Thomas Jane was arrested for driving under the influence in Kern County during two thousand eight. He was stopped by the California Highway Patrol for driving at a high rate of speed. The actor who starred in ‘The Punisher’ was found to have a blood alcohol level above the legal limit. He was sentenced to probation and ordered to attend alcohol education classes. Jane has maintained a consistent career in television and film following this legal incident.

Tim Allen

Tim Allen was arrested in nineteen seventy eight at an airport for possession of over six hundred grams of cocaine. He faced a possible life sentence but cooperated with authorities to receive a lighter sentence. The future star of ‘Home Improvement’ served twenty eight months in a federal correctional institution. This experience fundamentally changed his life and led him to pursue a career in comedy after his release. He has since become one of the most successful actors and voice performers in the industry.

Tom Sizemore

Tom Sizemore was arrested dozens of times throughout his life for drug possession and domestic violence. He was famously convicted in two thousand three for assaulting his former girlfriend Heidi Fleiss. His career was frequently interrupted by jail sentences and failed attempts at rehabilitation. Despite his talent in films like ‘Saving Private Ryan’ his legal issues dominated much of his public narrative. Sizemore passed away in two thousand twenty three following a long history of health and legal struggles.

Will Smith

Will Smith was arrested in nineteen eighty nine following an incident involving a physical altercation in Philadelphia. He faced charges of aggravated assault and conspiracy though the charges were eventually dismissed. The event occurred shortly before he became a major television star in ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’. Smith has occasionally discussed how the experience influenced his perspective on fame and responsibility. This early legal challenge did not prevent him from becoming one of the biggest box office draws in history.

Woody Harrelson

Woody Harrelson was arrested in nineteen eighty two for disorderly conduct after dancing in the middle of a street. He was also arrested in nineteen ninety six for planting hemp seeds in Kentucky to challenge state laws. The actor has been a long time advocate for the legalization of marijuana and environmental causes. His legal encounters often reflect his activist leanings and personal beliefs. Harrelson has enjoyed a prolific career with major roles in ‘Natural Born Killers’ and ‘True Detective’.

Alec Baldwin

Alec Baldwin was arrested in two thousand fourteen for disorderly conduct after riding his bicycle the wrong way on a one way street. He was also arrested in two thousand eighteen following a dispute over a parking spot in New York City. The actor has had several high profile interactions with law enforcement and the court system over the years. More recently he faced legal scrutiny regarding an accidental shooting on the set of the film ‘Rust’. Baldwin remains a central and often polarizing figure in the entertainment industry.

Orlando Brown

Orlando Brown has been arrested numerous times for charges including domestic battery and drug possession. The former child star from ‘That’s So Raven’ has struggled publicly with mental health and substance abuse issues. His legal troubles have often been captured by the media during erratic public appearances. These incidents have largely hindered his ability to find consistent work in the acting profession. Many fans have expressed concern for his well being as his legal history continues to grow.

Columbus Short

Columbus Short was arrested for several incidents involving domestic violence and physical altercations. The actor was famously written out of the television show ‘Scandal’ following these legal complications. He served time in jail for violating his probation and failing to complete court ordered programs. Short has been open about his struggles with addiction and the impact it had on his career. He is currently working to rebuild his professional life through independent projects and writing.

Chris Brown

Chris Brown was arrested in two thousand nine for a felony assault on his then girlfriend Rihanna. This high profile case resulted in five years of probation and community service for the performer. He has since been arrested on multiple other occasions for incidents involving assault and hit and run. Despite a long list of legal issues he has continued to release successful music and appear in films like ‘Stomp the Yard’. His career remains a subject of intense public debate regarding celebrity accountability.

T.I.

T.I. was arrested in two thousand seven on federal weapons charges just hours before he was set to appear at an awards show. The actor and rapper served about a year in prison following a plea deal with prosecutors. He was arrested again in two thousand ten for drug charges which led to another period of incarceration for violating his probation. Since then he has focused on his acting career with roles in the ‘Ant-Man’ franchise. He has also become an active voice in social and political discussions.

Snoop Dogg

Snoop Dogg was arrested and charged with murder in nineteen ninety three during the early stages of his career. The high profile trial ended in an acquittal which allowed him to continue his rise to global superstardom. He has faced other arrests over the years for drug possession and firearm offenses in various countries. The actor has successfully transitioned into a mainstream media personality appearing in family friendly content and films like ‘Training Day’. He is now considered a cultural icon despite his early legal battles.

Danny Masterson

Danny Masterson was arrested in two thousand twenty and charged with multiple counts of forcible rape. The actor who was known for ‘That’s Seventy’s Show’ faced a long legal process involving two separate trials. He was eventually convicted on two counts of rape and sentenced to thirty years to life in prison. This case brought significant attention to the allegations and the actor’s ties to the Church of Scientology. Masterson is currently serving his sentence in the California state prison system.

Emile Hirsch

Emile Hirsch was arrested in two thousand fifteen for assaulting a female film executive at the Sundance Film Festival. The actor pleaded guilty to misdemeanor assault and served fifteen days in jail as part of a plea agreement. He also paid a fine and completed community service hours following the incident. Hirsch expressed deep remorse for his actions and cited alcohol as a contributing factor. He has continued to work in the industry appearing in films like ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’.

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