Music legend Elton John has publicly voiced his concerns over the legalization of marijuana in the United States and Canada, describing it as one of the “greatest mistakes of all time.” In an interview with Time magazine, John reflected on his personal struggles with drug addiction and warned about the potential dangers of legalizing marijuana.
John’s perspective is rooted in his own history with substance abuse, particularly during his rise to fame in the 1970s. He openly shared his experience with drugs, including cocaine, which he was introduced to by his then-manager John Reid. “You make terrible decisions on drugs,” he admitted. “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.”
“I maintain that it’s addictive. It leads to other drugs,” John stated. “And when you’re stoned — and I’ve been stoned — you don’t think normally.” His comments reflect the view that marijuana can impair judgment and act as a gateway to more dangerous substances.
Though John has been sober since 1990, he has been an advocate for addiction recovery, helping artists like Eminem and Robbie Williams. He acknowledged, however, that he was unable to help George Michael overcome his addiction.
“It’s tough to tell someone that they’re being an a–hole, and it’s tough to hear,” John said. “Eventually, I made the choice to admit that I’m being an a–hole.”
John’s comments come as marijuana use continues to rise following its legalization in multiple states and Canada. Many conservative and Christian communities have expressed similar concerns, highlighting potential societal and moral impacts of widespread marijuana availability. Critics argue that legalization has led to increased addiction rates, impaired decision-making, and higher public health costs.
As the debate over marijuana legalization continues, John’s comments add a personal perspective on the risks associated with drug use and the broader implications for society.
