In a candid interview for his TIME Icon of the Year profile, Elton John shared his strong stance on marijuana legalization, calling it one of the “greatest mistakes of all time.” The legendary singer, who has been sober since 1990, expressed concern over the potential dangers of legalizing recreational marijuana in the U.S. and Canada, describing it as “addictive” and a gateway to further substance abuse.
John, known for his candidness and openness about his past struggles with addiction, maintained that marijuana, despite being legal in 25 U.S. states and across Canada, poses a significant risk. “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.”
Reflecting on his personal history with addiction, John highlighted the damaging impact drugs had on his relationships and life decisions. He recounted the reckless choices he made while under the influence, admitting that he “made terrible decisions on drugs.” John further elaborated on how his intoxication led him to make hurtful decisions, including emotionally damaging relationships, which he deeply regrets today.
While the CDC reports differing opinions on whether cannabis is truly a “gateway drug,” with some experts suggesting that marijuana use can increase the likelihood of using other substances, John’s personal experiences have shaped his firm view on the subject. He emphasized the difficulty of acknowledging one’s harmful behavior while intoxicated and the challenges of confronting the truth during addiction.
As marijuana continues to be legalized across several countries, Elton John’s comments serve as a stark reminder of the potential risks associated with substance use, urging a more cautious approach toward legalization.
