Elton John believes legalizing marijuana is one of the greatest mistakes of all time.
Elton John is making his stance on legalized marijuana crystal clear. In an interview with Time magazine for their Icon of the Year coverage, the legendary musician spoke candidly about his concerns over the widespread legalization of cannabis in parts of the U.S. and Canada.
I maintain that it’s addictive, John said. It leads to other drugs. And when you’re stoned—and I’ve been stoned—you don’t think normally. He didn’t mince words, calling the legalization of marijuana in North America one of the greatest mistakes of all time.
John’s perspective is shaped by his own long-standing sobriety and experiences within the music industry, where substance abuse is a prevalent issue. He has been sober for decades and is an advocate for recovery, often stepping in to support others facing addiction.
The publication highlighted his role as Eminem’s sobriety sponsor and his efforts to help English pop star Robbie Williams during his first stint in rehab. However, John also reflected on the challenges of helping others and the limitations of his influence.
One such case was George Michael, the iconic singer-songwriter who battled substance abuse throughout his life. Michael passed away in 2016 at the age of 53 due to heart and liver disease, conditions linked to his struggles with addiction.
It’s tough to tell someone that they’re a hole, and it’s tough to hear, John said of his attempts to assist Michael with sobriety. Despite his efforts, he admitted that ultimately, the choice to seek help lies with the individual.
John’s comments come at a time when debates over marijuana legalization continue to spark conversation worldwide. While proponents argue for its medical benefits and potential to reduce criminalization, critics like John worry about its broader societal and personal impacts, particularly on mental health and addiction.
The interview also underscores John’s deep commitment to supporting artists and others struggling with addiction. His own sobriety journey has made him a beacon of hope for many, but it has also taught him that recovery requires personal accountability.
As a cultural icon, John’s candid remarks add a personal and thought-provoking perspective to the ongoing discourse around marijuana and substance abuse, highlighting the complexities of addiction and the importance of addressing it with empathy and honesty.
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