Woody Harrelson: A Star with a Checkered Past

Woody Harrelson, the acclaimed actor known for his roles in films such as 'The Crying Game' and 'True Detective', has been the subject of numerous controversies throughout his career. This article delves into the darker aspects of his life, including legal troubles inherited from his father, outspoken political views, and the impact of his behavior both on and off the set.

Legal Troubles Inherited from His Father

Woody Harrelson is not without his share of controversies, but the most significant one pertains to the deeds of his late father, Charles Voyde Harrelson. Charles, a notorious hired gun and organized crime figure, was responsible for the assassination of federal judge John H. Wood Jr. in 1979. Charles Harrelson was convicted for the crime, and his wife Jo Ann was sentenced for conspiracy and perjury related to the assassination.

However, Woody Harrelson was not involved in the assassination of Judge Wood Jr. The real controversy began with his involvement in other criminal activities. In 1970, Harrelson was accused of murder in the death of Alan Berg, which inspired the film 'Run Brother Run'. He was also accused of being involved in the murder-for-hire of Sam Degelia, although he was acquitted in the first trial. He was retried and found guilty, serving five years before release.

Controversies in Public and Political Life

Woody Harrelson's public life and political views have often been under the spotlight. His skepticism towards vaccines and the COVID-19 pandemic has garnered him criticism from public health officials and supporters of vaccination. In 2001, Harrelson even suggested that the 9/11 attacks were an inside job, a stance that many have labeled as a conspiracy theory. These comments sparked backlash from various communities.

Behavior on Set: Tensions and Incidents

Harrelson's behavior on film sets has also been a subject of controversy. Reports of his unprofessional behavior, including arriving late and causing disruptions, have led to tensions with co-stars and production teams. These incidents have occasionally overshadowed his talent and contributions to the industry.

Controversial Roles and Media Impact

Some of Harrelson's film roles have been met with controversy, particularly those that involve themes of violence or controversy. These portrayals have led to discussions about the impact of such media on society. While Harrelson's dedication to environmental causes is applauded by many, some have accused him of hypocrisy, particularly in light of a land dispute he was involved in over a property in Hawaii.

Through these various controversies, Woody Harrelson remains a passionate and controversial figure in the entertainment industry. Despite the controversy, his talent and contributions to film and television cannot be denied. The key to understanding Harrelson's career is to balance his artistic achievements with these darker aspects of his life.