Who is Gary Busey?

Gary Busey, an accomplished American actor, has left an indelible mark with his performances in over 100 films, predominantly in supporting roles. Recognized for his notable contributions to cinematic classics such as “The Buddy Holly Story,” “Lethal Weapon,” “Point Break,” and “Under Siege,” Busey earned an Oscar nomination for his compelling portrayal of Buddy Holly in 1978.

Why was he arrested?

In June 2023, Gary Busey encountered legal trouble in Tulsa, Oklahoma, when he was arrested for driving under the influence, possession of a controlled substance, and resisting arrest. The arrest transpired after he ran a red light and neglected to stop at a stop sign. Busey declined to undergo a breathalyzer test and exhibited combative behavior towards the officers. Additionally, cocaine and marijuana were discovered in his vehicle.

What is the mugshot?

Following his arrest, Gary Busey underwent the standard booking and processing procedures at the Tulsa jail. This included the capture of the infamous mugshot, portraying Busey with a wild gaze, disheveled hair, and a scruffy beard. Notably, he seemed to be shirtless, opting for a pair of overalls in the stock photos.

How did the mugshot go viral?

The Tulsa Police Department released Gary Busey’s mugshot to the public as part of standard protocol. Unexpectedly, the mugshot garnered widespread attention on the internet due to the surprising and amusing nature of Busey’s appearance and expression. Social media platforms, including Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, witnessed extensive sharing of the mugshot, turning it into a meme. Users created jokes, captions, and parodies, drawing comparisons between Busey and various characters and animals.

What happened to Busey after the arrest?

Gary Busey entered a guilty plea for the charges, leading to a sentence of one year of probation, 50 hours of community service, and a $1,000 fine. Additionally, he was mandated to participate in drug and alcohol counseling while being subject to random drug tests. Expressing remorse for his actions, Busey apologized and acknowledged his commitment to addressing his addiction issues. He disputed the accuracy of the mugshot, asserting that he was smiling and engaging in banter with the officers prior to the photograph being captured.