Elton John slams legalization of marijuana in America, Canada

Elton John doesn’t seem to like the fact that marijuana is legal in America and Canada.

The singer, named Time magazine’s 2024 Icon of the Year, has spoken candidly about his struggles with drug addiction and shared strong opinions on marijuana legalization in a new interview with the outlet.

“I maintain that it’s addictive. It leads to other drugs,” John stated firmly.

“And when you’re stoned — and I’ve been stoned — you don’t think normally. Legalizing marijuana in America and Canada is one of the greatest mistakes of all time.”

The legendary musician, who battled addiction for years before going sober, reflected on how his personal experiences shaped his stance. 

First introduced to cocaine in the 1970s by his then-lover and manager John Reid, John admitted that drugs led him to make poor decisions and hurt those around him.

“You make terrible decisions on drugs,” he said.

“I wanted love so badly, I’d just take hostages. I’d see someone I liked and spend three or four months together, and then they would resent me because they had nothing in their life apart from me. It really upsets me, thinking back on how many people I probably hurt.”

Despite his own struggles, John has dedicated himself to helping others recover from addiction.

He famously served as a sponsor for rapper Eminem and supported British pop star Robbie Williams during his first trip to rehab.

However, he also reflected on the challenges of confronting loved ones about their issues, citing the late George Michael as someone he was unable to help.

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