In a candid interview with Time magazine, legendary musician Elton John has shared strong opinions about the legalization of marijuana in the United States and Canada.
John, known for his musical genius and advocacy for sober living, said that legalizing cannabis was “one of the greatest mistakes of all time.”
“I maintain that it’s addictive,” he said. “It leads to other drugs. And when you’re stoned—and I’ve been stoned—you don’t think normally.”
The iconic singer, who has battled addiction in his own life, spoke from a personal perspective, having been sober for many years.
John’s words have sparked a renewed debate about the consequences of legalizing marijuana, with many wondering if his personal experience with addiction colors his view.
Elton John is no stranger to the devastating effects of addiction. The star has openly discussed his past struggles with drugs and alcohol.
“I’ve been stoned,” John admitted. “And when you’re stoned, you don’t think normally.”
John’s decision to speak out against marijuana legalization is influenced by his long journey toward sobriety. He has been sober for many years and now serves as a sponsor to other musicians, including the rapper Eminem.
In the Time interview, John shared how his own battles with substance abuse have shaped his opinions.
He also revealed that he played a pivotal role in helping English pop star Robbie Williams through his first stint in rehab.
But one artist John deeply regrets not being able to help was his close friend George Michael.
John spoke emotionally about his efforts to assist his late friend, George Michael, who struggled with addiction.
Michael, whose career soared in the 1980s and 1990s, passed away in 2016 from heart and liver disease at the age of 53.
“It’s tough to tell someone that they’re being an a**hole, and it’s tough to hear,” John said, recalling his attempts to help Michael.
He admitted that, in the end, his efforts to get Michael to confront his substance abuse were met with resistance.
“Eventually I made the choice to admit that I’m being an a**hole,” John confessed.
Though his regret about Michael’s death is clear, John’s experience has shaped his commitment to helping others stay sober.
John’s longtime collaborator and writing partner, Bernie Taupin, also shared his thoughts on their time together during John’s darkest days.
“I was terrified for him,” Taupin said. “It was absolutely horrible.”
Taupin explained that during the period when John was most consumed by addiction, their creative partnership suffered.
“A lot of the work that we did in the times when he was at his worst wasn’t the best of both of us,” Taupin admitted.
He recalled how, when John was finally able to get clean, their work together took on a new depth.
“It was easier for me to reflect upon it,” Taupin said, referring to their collaborations after John found sobriety.
John’s stance on marijuana legalization is part of a broader conversation about drug use and addiction in modern society.
While many advocates argue that legalization can reduce crime and generate tax revenue, John sees it as a dangerous step that could worsen addiction.
“There’s no way to deny that marijuana is addictive,” he said. “And it leads to other drugs.”
His viewpoint has resonated with some who share concerns about the potential consequences of legalizing substances that may have long-term health impacts.
But supporters of legalization argue that marijuana is less harmful than other substances, including alcohol, and should be regulated like alcohol to prevent illegal use.
