Jared Padalecki, Supernatural Star, Arrested for Assault
One of the long-time stars of Supernatural may be in a super amount of trouble with the law. According to TMZ and other outlets, Jared Padalecki -- who stars opposite Jensen Ackles on this beloved CW drama -- was taken into custody on Sunday morning in Austin, Texas.
Here is what we know at the moment about what led to the arrest: based on surveillance footage and the accounts of various onlookers, Padalecki grew extremely violent on the sidewalk outside of a lounge called Stereotype. (Insiders have confirmed that the actor often frequents this establishment.) The ugly incident started after Padalecki allegedly hit a bartender in the face from inside the bar/restaurant ... and then actually placed a friend, who was trying to calm him down outside, in a headlock. The actor also is accused of striking the general manager of Stereotype in the face, prior to the police being called to the scene and restraining him.
In a sort of hilarious and unfortunate twist to the story, Padalecki apparently pulled out a wad of cash and attempted to bribe his way out of the arrest before officers took him in. TMZ writes that Padalecki may be an "investor" in this lounge and possibly even the owner, although this has not yet been confirmed. He was definitely present for its opening last year, however. Check out the following photo as evidence:
Per his booking sheet, Padalecki is facing two counts of assault and one count of public intoxication. His bond was set at $15,000 -- but, as of this writing, it's unclear whether or not he has posted it yet. Supernatural, meanwhile, is the longest-running hit in The CW history. It premiered in September of 2005 and will wrap up its 15th and final season in the spring of 2020.
Padalecki and Ackles have starred on the series since the very beginning, earning a passionate following as two brothers who are constantly doing battle with evil forces in order to save the planet. Talk about a lot of responsibility! In the wake of Padalecki's arrest, an endless array of fans have taken to social media with messages of support for the actor. "I hope you're fine Jared, I'm here for you! Please be fine because it was you who kept me standing all these years. Without you I wouldn't be here today! I love you," one comment read. Added another: "I love you so much. You are an amazing human being. You have your reasons for taking action. I hope you get better, you helped me through my worst moments (even by far). Don't get hurt, don't mind the mean comments. You are important." Padalecki, who also had a prominent role on Gilmore Girls, has not yet spoken about the arrest. Looking ahead, he is slated to appear and produce The CW's reboot of Chuck Norris' Walker, Texas Ranger as his next project