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

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. 

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).