Nashville, TN — Legendary country music artist Willie Nelson, a cultural icon whose prolific career spans decades, has announced a significant personal health decision at the age of 92, revealing he has stopped smoking cannabis due to ongoing lung issues. The revelation came during an interview conducted on Saturday, June 7, with Forbes magazine.
Nelson, known almost as much for his distinctive voice and songwriting as his long-standing, public advocacy for marijuana, clarified that this lifestyle adjustment does not signal any intention to retire from music. Instead, the nonagenarian performer and entrepreneur stated he has transitioned to primarily using cannabis in the form of edibles.
A Personal Health Decision
The decision to cease smoking marks a notable change for Nelson, whose image has been intertwined with cannabis consumption for much of his public life. While he has faced various health challenges over the years, including respiratory concerns, this specific announcement provides insight into his current approach to managing his well-being while continuing his relationship with the plant he has long championed.
In the Forbes interview, Nelson was direct about the reasoning behind the shift. “I have abused my lungs quite a bit in the past, so smoking is no longer an option for me,” he was quoted as saying. This candid acknowledgment underscores the health considerations that led to the change from inhalation to ingestion.
Despite this personal modification in his consumption method, Nelson remains deeply involved in the cannabis industry and continues his vocal support for policy reform.
Championing Cannabis: Business and Advocacy
Far from stepping away from the world of cannabis, Nelson confirmed that he actively owns and operates his well-known cannabis company, Willie’s Reserve. Launched in 2015, the brand offers a variety of cannabis products sourced from independent farmers who adhere to specific quality standards, reflecting Nelson’s personal commitment to the plant.
His business endeavors are closely linked to his passionate advocacy for the broader legalization movement. During the June 7 interview, Nelson reiterated his firm belief that federal legalization in the U.S. is not just possible, but imminent. This perspective aligns with growing national momentum towards cannabis reform, although significant legal and political hurdles remain at the federal level.
Nelson’s advocacy extends beyond simply calling for policy changes. Through Willie’s Reserve, he emphasizes the importance of quality control for the cannabis products being sold. This focus on quality is part of his broader vision for a mature, responsible cannabis industry. He also mentioned the concept of having a diverse menu of products available through his brand, catering to different consumer preferences and needs, including, presumably, the edibles he now favors.
Legacy and Adaptation
Willie Nelson’s influence on music and culture is undeniable. His willingness to openly discuss his cannabis use throughout his career has played a role in shifting public perceptions. Now, at 92, his decision to adapt his personal use for health reasons while maintaining his business interests and advocacy highlights a blend of personal responsibility and unwavering commitment to a cause.
The transition to edibles demonstrates an adaptation to age and health, rather than a renunciation of cannabis itself. It underscores that his connection to marijuana is multifaceted, encompassing not just personal consumption but also a significant business enterprise and a dedicated political stance.
As he continues to perform and manage his business ventures, Nelson’s latest revelation serves as a reminder that even at 92, this enduring icon remains capable of making significant personal changes while staying true to the principles and causes he has championed for decades.
