Celebrities
Legalizing Marijuana in U.S, Canada, Greatest Mistake of All Time – Elton John
British music icon, Sir Elton John has stirred fresh controversy with his strong criticism of marijuana legalization in North America.
Speaking in a recent interview, the legendary singer-songwriter labeled the policy a significant misstep, saying, “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. Legalizing marijuana in America and Canada is one of the greatest mistakes of all time.”
John’s remarks address the growing movement for cannabis legalization in the region. In the United States, over 20 states now allow recreational use for adults, with many others permitting medical use.
Though cannabis remains federally illegal, the U.S Justice Department has proposed reclassifying it. Meanwhile, Canada legalized marijuana entirely for both medical and recreational purposes in October 2018.
Sober since 1990, Sir Elton reflected on his personal history with addiction, candidly recounting how substance abuse affected his relationships and decision-making. “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. It really upsets me, thinking back on how many people I probably hurt.”
Despite the heated debate surrounding his stance, John’s recent recognition as Time’s Icon of the Year has brought him praise from peers and admirers in the music industry.
Pop star Dua Lipa, who collaborated with John on the hit single Cold Heart, lauded his enduring impact: “Singing alongside one of my musical heroes was a no-brainer. His music has soundtracked my life from the very beginning.”
Emerging artist Chappell Roan also expressed admiration, describing John as a mentor and trailblazer. “He’s one of the original queens,” she said, sharing his advice during a moment of self-doubt: “The songs will come. He thought that he wouldn’t have the ideas, but they were absolutely there. He just had to let them come to him. So that’s a good reminder.”
Elton John’s comments, blending his personal experiences and public advocacy, continue to ignite discussions about the cultural and social implications of marijuana legalization.