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This myth that you can’t yell fire in a crowded theater really bugs me. People use it as an example very, very often and it is a lie.

There is absolutely no question that, assuming you physically have the ability to speak, that you can yell the word “fire” in a crowded theater. You may, or may not suffer some consequences for it, but you certainly can do it.

Off hand, I can think of many examples where you can yell fire in a crowded theater with no negative consequences.

Obviously, if there is indeed a fire, then by all means shout it out.

But suppose there is no fire. The theater is crowded and people are waiting for a movie to start. Go up front and shout, “May I have your attention please...I was sitting here with my friend and he claimed that I can’t yell fire in a crowded theater. Did you notice? I just did.” Or, similarly you could announce to crowded patrons, “Please be aware of the nearest exit in case of fire or other emergency.” Notice, the word “fire” was in the sentence. Or, maybe you’re an actor on stage, the theater is crowded and your character is supposed to shout “Fire!” because of the situation in the play.

Anyway, you get the idea. You CAN shout fire in a crowded theater. I wish people wouldn’t use the notion that you can’t as an example of restricted speech, because it is false.