Rapper and hip hop star Snoop Dogg has announced he will stop smoking marijuana.
The artist, whose real name is Calvin Broadus, made the surprise announcement to his social media followers.
He said: “After much consideration & conversation with my family, I’ve decided to give up smoke.
“Please respect my privacy at this time.”
Followers were split on the news, with some in disbelief and joking about Snoop Dogg’s sudden sobriety.
Ro Marley, son of iconic reggae singer Bob Marley, said: “No more BBQ at uncle’s … the grill is off for the season.”
However, some shared horror stories about abusing marijuana, with one saying they had a major health incident related to smoking.
A follower said: “I had a pulmonary embolism last year and had to give up smoking as well; so more edibles for Edible Dee it is; but I know how hard this transition is especially for someone like you. Take all the time you need.”
Throughout his career, Snoop Dogg’s trademark has been smoking marijuana, with many of his business ventures and media appearances being about the drug.
Just five posts before his announcement today, the rapper said he and celebrity chef – and close friend – Martha Stewart released a line of ‘Best Bud Bags’ – designer clutches which come with a lighter and a compartment for weed.
It’s not the first time Snoop Dogg has made a break for sobriety. He said in 2002 that he was quitting the drug for good.
But he relapsed not long after, and his attempt at clean living was mocked in Adam Sandler’s movie 40 First Dates.
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In 2013, speaking to GQ magazine as Snoop Lion, the artist shared he was smoking 80 cannabis blunts a day.
Snoop Dogg rose to fame after making several appearances on Dr. Dre’s 1992 album The Chronic, which had a marijuana leaf front-and-centre of the cover.
The rapper released his debut album, “Doggystyle,” in 1993. Since then, he has released 19 albums and performed at the Superbowl in 2022.
Frank, the national anti-drug advisory service, notes that overusing marijuana can increase the risk of lung cancer.
It can also cause long-term anxiety, paranoia, and hallucinations, and can increase the chances of developing schizophrenia.