Photo by Nigel Parry / Esquire

News | 02.28.2022

How One Controversial Joke Led To Bill Murray’s First Marijuana Possession Charge

Bill Murray was busted for marijuana possession at a Chicago airport in the 70s, and he could have kept it under wraps by staying quiet.

You’ve probably seen a Bill Murray film here and there; from Ghostbusters to Groundhog Day, he’s become one of the most familiar faces and names in the entertainment industry. But, with such a long career in the spotlight, it’s without a doubt he was bound to get some unwanted attention. 

It was September 1970 when a 20-year-old Bill Murray faced some trouble with the law when trying to transport 10 pounds of weed on a commercial flight from Chicago. Was he successful? Not really, but the story is worth the read. 

According to The Laugh Button, a young Murray was standing in line to board a flight from Chicago to an unknown destination. Trying to give the situation some fun, like he always does, Murray cracked a joke, but one that genuinely did not age well. 

He said to another passenger that his suitcase was loaded with bombs when waiting to board. Yes, he actually said that. Granted, this was well before 9/11, when airports weren’t as cautious about bomb threats and terrorist attacks. Still, a ticket counter employee heard the ‘joke’ and called over U.S. Marshalls. 

Photo by Pascal Le Segretain / Getty Images

It didn’t take long for Murray to be yanked from the line and get his luggage inspected. To the Marshalls’ surprise, there were no bombs or explosives in sight. The luggage contained a generous amount of weed, two five-pound bricks, to be exact, which was worth about $20,000 at the time, but could go for $160,000 today, reports ShowBiz Cheat Sheet. 

A sly Murray still tried to cover up the evidence and hide the bricks in a locker, but authorities caught him and arrested the actor on site. It’s said that Murray covered up some parts of the crime by swallowing a check written to him by a “customer,” which was likely a huge check for the 10 pounds of green. 

Because he was a first-time offender, Murray was only subject to appear before a narcotics judge in court and was sentenced to five years probation only for possessing marijuana, as there was no evidence that he had the intent to sell (after swallowing it, of course).

Herb Recommended Products:

Featured Brands:

Herb Recommended Products:

READ MORE

The 10 Best Cannabis Strains To Boost And Maintain Productivity
Guides |
30.08.2022
The 10 Best Cannabis Strains To Boost And Maintain Productivity
Ganja Garlic Bread
recipes |
04.05.2015
Ganja Garlic Bread
Summer Sips: Meet The New Lineup Of Beverages From Upstate Elevator Supply Co.
Guides |
19.04.2024
Summer Sips: Meet The New Lineup Of Beverages From Upstate Elevator Supply Co.
How To Germinate Cannabis Seeds In A Few Easy Steps
Guides |
11.10.2023
How To Germinate Cannabis Seeds In A Few Easy Steps
Cannabis Terpenes: A Quick Guide
Guides |
13.05.2024
Cannabis Terpenes: A Quick Guide
Delta 8 vs. Delta 9: Learn About The Different Effects With Edibles
Learn |
15.02.2024
Delta 8 vs. Delta 9: Learn About The Different Effects With Edibles
Discover The Magic Behind THCV With Natural Natural
Learn |
23.03.2024
Discover The Magic Behind THCV With Natural Natural
Yes, you can actually smoke 24K gold joints
learn |
07.05.2018
Yes, you can actually smoke 24K gold joints
Yocan Stix Review: How To Use, Pros & Cons
Guides |
28.09.2021
Yocan Stix Review: How To Use, Pros & Cons
Edibles For Better Sex: Everything You Need To Know
Learn |
21.02.2022
Edibles For Better Sex: Everything You Need To Know