Here in the United States of America, more and more states vote to legalize medical and/or recreational cannabis each election cycle. Sir Elton John thinks that’s a mistake.
In an interview with Time, who named the legendary pop star their Icon of the Year, John expressed his opposition to the legalization of weed, citing addiction and his belief that it’s a gateway to harder substances as primary worries.
“Legalizing marijuana in America and Canada is one of the greatest mistakes of all time,” he stated. “I maintain that it’s addictive. It leads to other drugs. And when you’re stoned — and I’ve been stoned — you don’t think normally.”
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The sentiment aligns with John’s lifestyle, as the singer has been sober since 1990. In addition to maintaining his own sobriety, he also has helped several other notable names with their addictions. He’s Eminem’s sponsor, helped organize Robbie William’s first trip to rehab, and attempted to reach out to George Michael, though was unsuccessful in that effort.
When asked if he feels as strongly about alcohol, John turned to his husband David Furnish, who is also sober, to assist in his answer. Furnish acknowledged alcohol’s strong cultural presence, but said that studies show it’s less healthy than is commonly believed.
Elsewhere in the interview, John touched on the closure of his Broadway musical Tammy Faye, explained why he doesn’t want to be a judge on televised talent shows, and reflected on the poor relationship he had with his late mother.
Earlier this year, John became the 19th person to secure an EGOT, duetted with Orville Peck and the late Glen Campbell, performed with Joni Mitchell, and revealed his severe eye infection. Additionally, Never Too Late, a new Elton John documentary from Disney+, debuts this Friday (December 13th).
Editor’s Note: For those who don’t agree with Elton John’s assessment, check out our list of the Top 50 Stoner Albums.
