Arrest and Charges
Arlo Willner, the 20-year-old son of music producer Hal Willner and Emmy-awarded producer Sheila Rogers, has been charged with attempted murder after a knife attack outside a bar in Manhattan. Willner was arrested at 3:35 a.m. after allegedly stabbing three people outside Sally’s Bar on Lexington Avenue.
The Incident
According to a criminal complaint, Willner approached three men outside the bar and asked to buy cocaine. After being told "this was not the place for it," Willner allegedly pulled out a knife and attacked the victims, hitting one in the throat, another in the stomach, and a third in the shoulder. The attack ended when one of the victims grabbed the knife and threw it onto the street.
Aftermath
The victims were taken to Bellevue Hospital in stable condition. Willner was charged with attempted murder, assault, and criminal possession of a weapon. He was arraigned in Manhattan criminal court, where he pleaded not guilty and was later released on $100,000 cash bail or a $200,000 bond.
Court Appearance
Willner’s next court appearance is set for Thursday, May 22nd. His lawyer has not yet responded to a request for comment. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of the community and the need for support for those struggling with substance abuse and mental health issues.
Background
Sheila Rogers, Willner’s mother, is a renowned producer who has worked on several notable shows, including "Saturday Night Live," "The Late Late Show," and "The Late Show with David Letterman." She recently worked as a talent producer for "Saturday Night Live" and its 50th-anniversary special. Hal Willner, Willner’s father, was a music producer who worked on "Saturday Night Live" and produced albums for artists such as Marianne Faithfull and Lou Reed. He passed away in March 2020 after experiencing symptoms consistent with COVID-19.
Family Legacy
The incident has shocked the entertainment industry, given the family’s legacy in the business. Sheila Rogers has had a successful career spanning over three decades, working with top talent and producing iconic shows. Hal Willner’s contributions to the music industry are still celebrated, and his passing was mourned by many in the entertainment community. The incident serves as a reminder that mental health and substance abuse can affect anyone, regardless of their background or family legacy.
