Elton John Criticizes Marijuana Legalization and Reflects on Addiction Journey

Legendary musician Elton John has never been one to shy away from voicing his opinions. Recently named Time magazine’s 2024 Icon of the Year, John shared strong views about marijuana legalization in the US and Canada, calling it one of the “greatest mistakes of all time.” His candid remarks stem from a deeply personal battle with addiction, a struggle that has shaped both his life and his advocacy efforts.

Elton John on the Dangers of Drugs
In his Time interview, Elton John made it clear: “I maintain that it’s addictive. It leads to other drugs.” Reflecting on his own history with substance abuse, he added, “When you’re stoned — and I’ve been stoned — you don’t think normally.”

John’s battle with drugs began in the mid-1970s, when his lover-turned-manager, John Reid, introduced him to cocaine. The substance quickly took hold of his life, affecting both his career and personal decisions. “You make terrible decisions on drugs. I wanted love so badly, I’d just take hostages,” he admitted, expressing regret over the harm he caused to those around him.

Helping Others Find Sobriety
Beyond his own recovery, Elton John has dedicated himself to helping others break free from addiction. He served as a sponsor to rapper Eminem, guiding the artist through his journey to sobriety. John also played a pivotal role in sending British pop star Robbie Williams to rehab for the first time.

However, not all his efforts have been successful. One of his greatest heartbreaks was his inability to save his close friend, George Michael, from his struggles with substance abuse. Michael, who battled addictions to crack cocaine, cannabis, and sleeping pills, also faced legal troubles tied to his drug use.

“It’s tough to tell someone they’re being an ae, and it’s tough to hear it,” John reflected. “Eventually, I made the choice to admit that I’m being an ae.”

A Controversial Stance on Marijuana
While John’s critique of marijuana legalization may be polarizing, it highlights his deep conviction about the dangers of drug use. “It upsets me now, thinking back on how many people I probably hurt,” he said, emphasizing the ripple effect of addiction on relationships and communities.

A Legacy Beyond Music
Elton John’s journey from addiction to advocacy offers a powerful reminder of the resilience required for recovery. His willingness to speak openly about his struggles and to support others in their battles has cemented his legacy as not just a music icon but also a compassionate and courageous advocate for change.

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