Elton John criticizes cannabis legalization, reflects on his personal struggles with addiction

In an interview with Time, British music icon Elton John qualified the legalization of cannabis in the United States and in Canada from «one of the biggest mistakes of all time». He justifies his position by his personal struggles with addiction and his efforts to help others overcome substance abuse.

Elton John's criticism of cannabis legalization

Elton John, who has been sober since 1990, reiterated his belief that cannabis creates dependency and can be a gateway to more harmful substances. Drawing on his own experience, he declared: «When you're high - and I was - you don't think clearly».

He went on to say that the widespread acceptance of cannabis in North America has consequences that are not fully understood, highlighting the risks associated with its use.

In the U.S., 25 states have legalized cannabis for recreational use, and some 40 allow medical use. At the federal level, cannabis remains illegal, although efforts are underway to reclassify it. Canada, for its part, has fully legalized cannabis in 2018.

Lessons from a life marked by dependence

Reflecting on his own journey, Elton John gave a candid insight into how addiction has shaped his life and relationships. He recounted how he was introduced to cocaine in the 1970s by his partner and manager at the time, John Reid.

Drugs became a destructive force in his life, leading him to make bad decisions and get involved in unhealthy relationships. «Under the influence of drugs, you make terrible decisions,» John explains, «I wanted love so badly that I'd take people hostage. I'd see someone I loved and spend three or four months with him, then he'd resent me because he had nothing else in his life but me.»

Sobriety has brought self-awareness, but it hasn't been an easy road. «It's hard to tell someone they're a bastard, and it's hard to hear,» he admits.

Elton John has also been a mentor and advocate for artists. that fight addiction. He supported the likes of Eminem and British pop singer Robbie Williams in their recovery, even if not all his efforts were successful. He expressed deep sadness at his inability to help his late friend George Michael, whose struggles with addiction were well documented.

John's advocacy goes beyond one-to-one mentoring. By speaking openly about his past, he hopes to raise awareness of the complexity of addiction and the importance of responsibility. His heartfelt reflections remind us of the lasting impact of addiction, not only on individuals, but also on their loved ones.