Mark Ruffalo Talks About His 13-Year Streak of Illegal Driving in LA

Mark Ruffalo has never been shy about sharing the ups and downs of his life, but his latest revelation left fans both shocked and amused. During a recent interview with IGN to promote his new thriller Crime 101, the actor admitted something that sounded like it came straight from a movie script.

Ruffalo revealed that he spent thirteen years driving in Los Angeles with a suspended license. “I had a bench warrant out for my arrest the whole time,” he said, jokingly asking if any cops were listening.

Despite the risk, he says the situation made him an incredibly careful driver. “I was terrified of breaking any traffic law by accident,” he admitted. Over the years, he developed a reputation for being one of the most cautious drivers on LA streets, a silver lining to his legal trouble.

The secret finally came to light when Ruffalo’s wife discovered the warrant. She wasn’t impressed. “She told me she wanted someone who could handle the basics, like a valid driver’s license,” Ruffalo recalled.

Facing the possibility of both legal trouble and marital trouble, he went to court, explained his circumstances—including struggling with depression during his early acting years—and managed to resolve the issue with a fine. “I got out of it without going to jail and kept my wife,” he said.

Interestingly, Ruffalo sees a connection between his real-life experience and his role in Crime 101. The film, which hits theaters on February 13, is a gritty heist thriller where Ruffalo plays Lou Lubesnick, a determined detective tracking down a diamond thief played by Chris Hemsworth.

“Being in constant fear for so long probably helped me get into the mindset of someone who can’t afford mistakes,” he explained. The movie also stars Halle Berry, Barry Keoghan, Jennifer Jason Leigh, and Nick Nolte, with director Bart Layton praised for capturing the feel of 90s Los Angeles.

Ruffalo has had a busy start to the year. In addition to promoting Crime 101, he’s starring in Bong Joon-ho’s sci-fi film Mickey 17, which premiered in 2025 and is now streaming. Between press events and premieres, Ruffalo has been reflecting on how his personal challenges have shaped his career.

“I think all of those mistakes and close calls make you more aware and more prepared for any role you play,” he said. Fans have always admired Ruffalo for his honesty, relatability, and humor.

From playing the Hulk in the Marvel Cinematic Universe to confessing his time as a “fugitive driver,” Ruffalo proves that his real life is often as unpredictable and entertaining as his films.

Have something to add? Let us know in the comments.