Willie Nelson, 92, Opens Up About Health Changes and Adapting to Aging
At the age of 92, Willie Nelson, the legendary musician with a career spanning over six decades, has shared some surprising insights into his current health and lifestyle, revealing the adjustments he’s made as he ages. Known for his legendary status in the music world, with an incredible 152 albums to his name and a key role in the outlaw country movement, Nelson’s love for marijuana has also become almost as iconic as his music. But recently, in an interview with Forbes, he opened up about how his relationship with marijuana has changed over the years as his body ages.
One of the most notable changes, according to Willie, is his decision to stop smoking altogether. After years of inhaling various substances, including cigarettes and marijuana, Nelson admits that the toll it’s taken on his lungs is now too significant to ignore. “My lungs have already said, ‘Don’t do that,'” Willie shared. This shift comes after years of enduring the effects of smoking, a habit he had long been associated with, especially his fondness for marijuana. Despite this change, he hasn’t entirely given up on his beloved cannabis. Instead of smoking it, he now enjoys marijuana in the form of edibles, which are gentler on his respiratory system.
This adjustment in Willie’s lifestyle may come as a surprise to many, especially those who have long associated him with his cannabis use. However, it reflects his growing awareness of the need to take better care of his health as he navigates his later years. In the same Forbes interview, Willie also spoke about his popular THC-infused tonic line, Willie’s Remedy, noting that it’s been gaining traction. Although he is no longer as hands-on with the brand, Willie expressed pride in its success and gave a special shoutout to his wife, Annie D’Angelo, who manages much of the business side of things.
This isn’t the first time Willie has spoken about modifying his habits due to health concerns. Back in 2019, he revealed to KSAT in San Antonio that he had quit smoking cigarettes for health reasons, a decision spurred by breathing difficulties that led him to cancel a tour. Reflecting on his past habits, Willie acknowledged the toll they had taken on his lungs, admitting, “I’ve mistreated my lungs since I was young… that almost killed me.” He even recalled his youthful days of smoking cedar bark before moving on to cigarettes and eventually cannabis.
Despite these health challenges, Willie Nelson’s resilience and spirit remain undiminished. His willingness to adapt to his body’s needs demonstrates his commitment to preserving his health while continuing to enjoy life on his terms. At 92, Willie remains a beloved figure in the music industry, balancing his illustrious career with a mindful approach to his well-being. His journey serves as a testament to his authenticity and his ability to evolve, all while remaining true to himself and his fans.