Outrage over Robbie's 'lovely drug' claims

Updated

Robbie Williams has done his fair share of drugs, booze and rock 'n' roll living. But as a celebrity who has spent several well-documented spells in rehab, it would be fair to expect him to warn other of the dangers of illegal substances. Instead, the singer has caused outrage by claiming that marijuana is a "lovely drug".


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Speaking to the Radio Times, Robbie said: "Have a look at me last year. Yep. Year of the Munchie 2009. Weed, it's such a lovely drug. It is such a lovely drug. But it doesn't mix well with me – at all."

Let's be honest, these are hardly the words of a role model for the nation's youngsters. Ex-Take That star Robbie has previously battled addictions to cocaine and prescription drugs but readily admitted that he had been regularly using cannabis up until this year.

Campaign groups and charities alike were concerned by his comments. David Gilbert, chief executive of DARE, told the Daily Mail: "This is grossly irresponsible. He is a role model. Young people look up to him, they admire him, they want to emulate him so saying something like this is thoughtless."

No doubt there will be a grovelling apology from Mr Williams in a matter of hours, but the damage could already be done. With more and more youngsters trying the Class B drug without really understanding the effects, such comments can only serve to encourage the use of the drug.

Robbie's latest musical offering, Morning Sun, has been announced as the official Sport Relief song and he could very well help to raise money for disadvantaged young people who have been affected by the very drug he has praised.

But isn't it about time that celebrities took responsibility for their comments in view of their status as role models, or was Robbie quite right to be truthful about his drug use?

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