Actors Who Were in Prison or Jail
Hollywood often seems glamorous, but some actors have faced serious legal troubles. Many male actors have spent time in prison for crimes ranging from drug offenses to violent acts, showing that fame doesn’t protect you from the law.
These stories highlight how even successful stars can make mistakes that lead to serious consequences. Here’s a list of 50 male actors who served time behind bars, along with the reasons for their incarceration.
Robert Downey Jr.
Robert Downey Jr., known for playing Iron Man, faced legal issues due to drug addiction. In the late 1990s, he was arrested multiple times for drug possession and parole violations.
In 2001, he was sentenced to three years in prison but served about one year in a California facility. His redemption story is inspiring, as he rebuilt his career to become one of Hollywood’s biggest stars.
Mark Wahlberg
Mark Wahlberg had a troubled youth before becoming a Hollywood star. At 16, he attacked a Vietnamese man with a stick, knocking him unconscious, and harmed another on the same day.
He was convicted of assault and sentenced to two years in prison but served only 45 days. Wahlberg turned his life around, starring in films like ‘The Departed’ and becoming a role model for redemption.
Tim Allen
Tim Allen, famous for ‘Home Improvement’, had a dark past involving drug trafficking. In 1978, he was caught with over 650 grams of cocaine at an airport.
He faced a life sentence but cooperated with authorities, reducing his time to just over two years. After prison, Allen focused on comedy and acting, building a successful career.
Danny Trejo
Danny Trejo, known for roles in ‘Machete’ and ‘Desperado’, spent years in prison for crimes like armed robbery and drug offenses. In the 1960s and 1970s, he was in and out of facilities like San Quentin.
While incarcerated, he turned his life around and became a drug counselor. His tough-guy image helped him land iconic roles in Hollywood.
Phil Spector
Phil Spector, a music producer who acted in films like ‘Easy Rider’ (1969), was convicted of a serious crime. In 2003, he shot and killed actress Lana Clarkson at his home.
In 2009, he was found guilty of second-degree murder and sentenced to 19 years to life. Spector died in prison in 2021, leaving a tainted legacy.
Danny Masterson
Danny Masterson, known for ‘That ‘70s Show’ (1998–2006), was convicted of sexual assault. In 2017, multiple women accused him of rape, leading to a 2020 arrest.
After a mistrial, he was convicted in 2023 on two counts of rape and sentenced to 30 years to life. He is currently incarcerated in California.
Ryan Grantham
Ryan Grantham, a former child actor in ‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid’ (2010), committed a shocking crime. In 2020, he shot and killed his mother in their British Columbia home.
He pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and received a life sentence with no parole for 14 years. Grantham is serving his sentence in a Canadian prison.
Michael Jace
Michael Jace, recognized for ‘The Shield’ (2002–2008), was convicted of murder. In 2014, he shot and killed his wife, April, in their Los Angeles home in front of their children.
In 2016, he was sentenced to 40 years to life for second-degree murder. Jace remains in a California prison with parole eligibility in 2056.
Jared Fogle
Jared Fogle, the former Subway spokesperson who appeared in ‘Sharknado 3’ (2015), was convicted of serious crimes. In 2015, he pleaded guilty to possessing child pornography and paying for sex with minors.
He was sentenced to 15 years and 8 months in federal prison. Fogle is incarcerated in Colorado, with a possible release in 2029.
Joe Son
Joe Son, known for playing Random Task in ‘Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery’ (1997), was convicted of heinous crimes. In 2008, DNA evidence linked him to a 1990 gang rape.
He received a life sentence with no parole for seven years, and in 2011, he killed his cellmate, adding 27 years. Son remains in a California prison.
Wesley Snipes
Wesley Snipes, star of ‘Blade’ (1998), faced legal trouble for tax evasion. From 1999 to 2004, he failed to file tax returns, owing millions to the IRS.
In 2010, he was sentenced to three years in prison and served until 2013. Snipes has since returned to acting with roles in films like ‘Dolemite Is My Name’.
Charles S. Dutton
Charles S. Dutton, known for ‘Roc’ (1991–1994), had a troubled past before acting. In 1967, he was convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to five years.
While on parole, he faced robbery and gun charges, returning to prison. After his release, Dutton built a successful career in TV and film.
Cameron Douglas
Cameron Douglas, who appeared in ‘Wonder Boys’ (2000), struggled with drug addiction. In 2010, he pleaded guilty to heroin possession and conspiracy to distribute drugs.
He was sentenced to five years, with additional time for drug possession in prison, and was released in 2016. Douglas has since focused on recovery and acting.
Christian Slater
Christian Slater, known for ‘Heathers’ (1988), faced multiple arrests in the 1990s. In 1997, he was convicted of assault and drug possession after attacking his girlfriend and a police officer.
He served 59 days in jail as part of a plea deal. Slater later rebuilt his career with roles in ‘Mr. Robot’.
Tommy Lee
Tommy Lee, Mötley Crüe drummer and actor in ‘The Dirt’ (2019), was convicted of spousal abuse. In 1998, he assaulted his then-wife, Pamela Anderson.
He pleaded no contest and served six months in jail. Lee has continued his music and acting career despite his legal troubles.
Sean Penn
Sean Penn, star of ‘Mystic River’ (2003), had a history of violent outbursts. In 1987, while on probation, he punched an extra on the set of ‘Colors’.
He was sentenced to 60 days in jail but served only 33 days. Penn later won two Oscars and continued his successful career.
6ix9ine
Rapper 6ix9ine, who acted in ‘Black Dynamite’ (2009), faced serious charges. In 2019, he pleaded guilty to armed robbery and conspiracy to commit murder.
He was sentenced to two years but released early in 2020 due to health concerns. 6ix9ine continues to make music and act.
Don King
Don King, a boxing promoter who appeared in ‘The Last Fight’ (1983), was convicted of manslaughter. In 1967, he killed an employee by beating him over a debt.
Sentenced to four years, King was paroled after serving time. He later became a famous promoter for boxers like Muhammad Ali.
DMX
Rapper DMX, who starred in ‘Cradle 2 the Grave’ (2003), faced multiple legal issues. In 2018, he was sentenced to one year for tax fraud.
He also served time for robbery, weapons, and drug charges over the years. DMX passed away in 2021 after a drug overdose.
Chuck Berry
Rock legend Chuck Berry, who acted in ‘Go, Johnny, Go!’ (1959), had a troubled legal history. In 1944, he was convicted of armed robbery and served three years.
Later, in 1959, he violated the Mann Act, serving 20 months, and in 1979, he served four months for tax evasion. Berry died in 2017.
Isaiah Stokes
Isaiah Stokes, known for roles in ‘Power’ (2014–2020), was convicted of murder. In 2021, he killed Tyrone Jones in Queens, New York, over a prior dispute.
He was sentenced to 25 years to life in 2025. Stokes remains incarcerated, with his acting career effectively ended.
David Meza
David Meza, an adult film actor under the name Mario Romo, committed murder. In 2015, he stabbed his partner, Jake Clyde Meredino, to death in Mexico.
Meza was sentenced to life plus 20 years for murder and conspiracy. He is serving his sentence in a U.S. federal prison.
Skylar Deleon
Skylar Deleon, a former child actor in ‘Mighty Morphin Power Rangers’ (1993–1996), was convicted of multiple murders. In 2004, he killed a couple to steal their yacht and earlier murdered another man.
He was sentenced to death, later commuted to life without parole. Deleon remains in a California prison and has since changed his gender to female.
William Hayden
William Hayden, star of ‘Sons of Guns’ (2011–2014), was convicted of sexual crimes. In 2017, he was found guilty of raping a young girl multiple times.
He received two life sentences plus 40 years without parole. Hayden is incarcerated in Louisiana’s Angola prison.
Pete McNeal
Pete McNeal, a drummer who acted in small roles, was convicted of child molestation. In 2014, he was found guilty of molesting a three-year-old girl.
He received a 15-year-to-life sentence and must register as a sex offender. McNeal is serving time in a California prison.
Mel Hall
Mel Hall, a former baseball player and actor, was convicted of sexual assault. In 2009, he was found guilty of assaulting a 12-year-old girl he coached.
He was sentenced to 45 years with no parole for 22 years. Hall is incarcerated in Texas.
Ricardo Medina Jr.
Ricardo Medina Jr., known for ‘Power Rangers Samurai’ (2011–2012), was convicted of manslaughter. In 2015, he stabbed his roommate to death during an argument.
He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to six years in prison. Medina was released in 2022 but served significant time.
Lillo Brancato
Lillo Brancato Jr., known for ‘A Bronx Tale’ (1993), was involved in a fatal crime. In 2005, he participated in a burglary that led to a police officer’s death.
Convicted of attempted burglary, he served eight years and was released in 2013. Brancato has since returned to acting.
Kiefer Sutherland
Kiefer Sutherland, star of ‘24’ (2001–2010), faced legal issues for DUI. In 2007, he was arrested for drunk driving and violating probation.
He served 48 days in jail as part of a plea deal. Sutherland continued his successful career after his release.
Jeremy Jackson
Jeremy Jackson, known for ‘Baywatch’ (1991–1999), was convicted of assault. In 2015, he stabbed a woman during an altercation in Los Angeles.
He pleaded no contest and served 270 days in jail. Jackson has since focused on recovery and smaller acting roles.
Dustin Diamond
Dustin Diamond, famous for ‘Saved by the Bell’ (1989–1993), was convicted of disorderly conduct. In 2014, he stabbed a man during a bar fight.
He served four months in jail after his 2015 conviction. Diamond passed away in 2021 from cancer.
Mike Tyson
Mike Tyson, a boxer who appeared in ‘The Hangover’ (2009), was convicted of rape. In 1992, he was found guilty of raping a woman in Indiana.
He served three years of a six-year sentence. Tyson later returned to boxing and acting.
Edward Furlong
Edward Furlong, known for ‘Terminator 2: Judgment Day’ (1991), faced multiple arrests. In 2013, he was sentenced to six months in jail for domestic violence and violating a restraining order.
He served his time and has since appeared in smaller film roles. Furlong continues to struggle with addiction.
Gary Dourdan
Gary Dourdan, recognized for ‘CSI: Crime Scene Investigation’ (2000–2008), was arrested for drug possession. In 2011, he was found with ecstasy and sentenced to 10 days in jail.
He completed community service and drug counseling as part of his plea deal. Dourdan continues to act in TV and film.
Johnny Lewis
Johnny Lewis, known for ‘Sons of Anarchy’ (2008–2014), had a troubled legal history. In 2012, he was sentenced to a year in jail for assault and burglary charges.
He died later that year after falling from a building during a psychotic episode. Lewis’ legal issues cut his career short.
Jamie Waylett
Jamie Waylett, who played Vincent Crabbe in the ‘Harry Potter’ series (2001–2011), was convicted of violent disorder. In 2011, he participated in the London riots and was caught with a Molotov cocktail.
He served two years in prison. Waylett has since stayed out of the public eye.
Nick Hogan
Nick Hogan, a reality TV star who appeared in ‘Hogan Knows Best’ (2005–2007), was convicted of reckless driving. In 2007, he crashed his car, seriously injuring a passenger.
He served eight months in jail after pleading no contest. Hogan has since pursued a low-profile career.
Lil Wayne
Rapper Lil Wayne, who acted in ‘Hurricane Season’ (2009), faced weapons charges. In 2010, he was sentenced to one year in prison for gun possession in New York.
He served eight months at Rikers Island. Wayne continued his music and acting career after release.
Ja Rule
Rapper Ja Rule, who appeared in ‘The Fast and the Furious’ (2001), was convicted of tax evasion. In 2011, he was sentenced to 28 months for failing to pay taxes on millions in income.
He served most of his sentence and was released in 2013. Ja Rule remains active in music and acting.
T.I.
Rapper T.I., known for ‘Ant-Man’ (2015), faced multiple legal issues. In 2010, he was sentenced to 11 months for violating probation on drug and weapons charges.
He served his time in a federal facility. T.I. has since continued his successful music and acting career.
Paul Reubens
Paul Reubens, famous for ‘Pee-wee’s Playhouse’ (1986–1990), was arrested for indecent exposure. In 1991, he was caught in an adult theater and pleaded no contest.
He served no jail time but completed community service. Reubens later revived his career with new projects.
Todd Bridges
Todd Bridges, known for ‘Diff’rent Strokes’ (1978–1986), faced drug and weapons charges. In 1989, he was arrested for cocaine possession and acquitted of attempted murder.
He served nine months in jail for drug-related offenses. Bridges later became an advocate for sobriety.
Matt Frewer
Matt Frewer, recognized for ‘Max Headroom’ (1987–1988), was arrested for drug possession. In the 1980s, he served brief jail time for cocaine-related charges.
Details of his sentence are scarce, but he continued acting afterward. Frewer is known for roles in ‘Watchmen’ and other films.
Tommy Chong
Tommy Chong, star of ‘Cheech & Chong’ films like ‘Up in Smoke’ (1978), was convicted of drug paraphernalia charges. In 2003, he was sentenced to nine months for selling bongs online.
He served his time in a federal prison. Chong continued his comedy and acting career post-release.
Mark Ruffalo
Mark Ruffalo, known for ‘The Avengers’ (2012), was briefly detained for protest-related activities. In 2010, he was arrested during an environmental protest but faced no formal charges.
He spent minimal time in custody and was released quickly. Ruffalo continues to act and advocate for causes.
Shia LaBeouf
Shia LaBeouf, star of ‘Transformers’ (2007), faced multiple arrests. In 2017, he was sentenced to 10 weeks in jail for public intoxication and disorderly conduct in Georgia.
He served part of his sentence and completed rehab. LaBeouf has since returned to acting in independent films.
Mickey Rourke
Mickey Rourke, known for ‘The Wrestler’ (2008), was arrested for DUI and spousal abuse. In 1994, he served brief jail time after domestic violence charges.
He completed counseling as part of his sentence. Rourke made a career comeback with an Oscar-nominated role.
Will Smith
Will Smith, the rapper known as Fresh Prince from ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ (1990–1996), was arrested in 1989. He was charged with assault after an altercation in Philadelphia.
He spent one night in jail before charges were dropped. Smith went on to become a global superstar.
Jay Johnston
Jay Johnston, known for ‘Bob’s Burgers’ (2011–present), was convicted for his role in the January 6 Capitol attack. In 2024, he was sentenced to 12 months for obstructing officers.
He is currently serving his sentence in a federal prison. Johnston’s acting career has been significantly impacted.
Rickey Medlocke
Rickey Medlocke, a musician and actor in small roles, faced legal issues in the 1970s. He served time for robbery and drug-related charges.
Details are limited, but he spent several months in jail. Medlocke continued his career with Lynyrd Skynyrd and acting.
Share your thoughts on these actors’ stories of redemption or downfall in the comments below!
