5 Famous Actors Who Publicly Support Cannabis Legalization

Cannabis legalization has seen a dramatic shift in public perception over the past two decades, and much of that momentum can be attributed to bold voices willing to challenge outdated laws and stigma. Among these voices are some of Hollywood’s most iconic figures.

These actors are not just jumping on a trend – they’ve invested time, money, and passion into changing how the world views cannabis. From launching companies to testifying before Congress, here are five celebrities using their star power to shape the future of cannabis.

1. Seth Rogen: Blending Cannabis with Culture and Justice

Few celebrities have done more to fuse cannabis with modern lifestyle and design than Seth Rogen. Known for his hilarious roles in films like Pineapple Express and This Is the End, Rogen has always embraced cannabis as a part of his identity, but his advocacy has evolved far beyond punchlines and stoner stereotypes.

In 2019, he co-founded Houseplant, a cannabis lifestyle brand that marries high-quality cannabis with high-end aesthetics. From stylish pre-rolls to mid-century modern ashtrays and custom ceramics, Houseplant redefines the cannabis experience for a new generation. Rogen personally oversees much of the product design, ensuring that cannabis is not just consumed—it’s celebrated.

But what sets Rogen apart is his unapologetic focus on social equity. Through partnerships with organizations like the Marijuana Policy Project and Cannabis Amnesty, Houseplant actively supports efforts to expunge cannabis-related criminal records and dismantle the harmful legacy of prohibition. Rogen is a frequent speaker on the topic, using interviews and social media to push back against outdated stigmas and advocate for normalization.

Rogen’s approach is a holistic one: blending art, commerce, and justice to transform how cannabis is perceived and enjoyed.

2. Woody Harrelson: A Lifelong Fighter for Cannabis Reform

Before dispensaries were chic and legalization bills were mainstream, Woody Harrelson was out in the fields—literally—fighting for cannabis. In 1996, Harrelson was arrested in Kentucky for planting hemp seeds in a symbolic protest against outdated U.S. cannabis laws. That bold act cemented his place as one of Hollywood’s earliest and most committed cannabis advocates.

Over the years, Harrelson has served on the advisory board of NORML (National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws), using his platform to support legislative reform and push for decriminalization at both the state and federal levels. He’s never shied away from the political side of the issue, frequently speaking out about the hypocrisy and racial disparities embedded in cannabis enforcement.

In 2022, Harrelson brought his passion into the business world by launching The Woods, a cannabis dispensary and social lounge in West Hollywood. With its tropical-themed design, lush greenery, and laid-back cabana vibes, The Woods aims to create a welcoming space where people from all walks of life can enjoy cannabis without shame or stigma.

For Harrelson, the mission is clear: normalize cannabis, honor its roots, and build an inclusive community around it. From protests to posh lounges, he remains one of the most genuine and persistent voices in the movement.

3. Whoopi Goldberg: Centering Women’s Health and Equity in Cannabis

When it comes to cannabis advocacy with a personal and purposeful mission, Whoopi Goldberg leads the charge, especially for women’s health. The award-winning actress, comedian, and talk show host has used her platform to shed light on how cannabis can serve as a vital therapeutic tool, particularly for conditions that have long been marginalized or misunderstood.

In 2016, she co-founded Whoopi and Maya, a company focused on cannabis-infused products aimed at relieving menstrual pain and discomfort. The idea was revolutionary at the time: not just another cannabis brand, but one with a clear, compassionate purpose, empowering women to take control of their health using plant-based medicine. Though the company shut down in 2020, its legacy remains significant.

Goldberg’s advocacy didn’t end there. In several interviews and op-eds since, she has spoken candidly about using cannabis herself to manage glaucoma and chronic pain and has called out the pharmaceutical industry for failing to provide reasonable, affordable alternatives. In a 2024 interview with Forbes, she said, “Medicine doesn’t have to be horrifying or unreasonably priced,” referring to cannabis.

By framing cannabis as a solution to very real medical issues—especially for women—Goldberg adds depth and urgency to the cannabis conversation, highlighting accessibility, equity, and compassion as core principles of legalization.

4. Morgan Freeman: Lending a Legendary Voice to Legalization

Morgan Freeman’s voice alone could make anything sound reasonable, but when it comes to cannabis, his message carries not just authority, but personal experience and heartfelt conviction. The Oscar-winning actor has spoken out openly about his use of cannabis to treat fibromyalgia, a chronic condition that causes intense pain and fatigue.

In a 2015 interview with The Daily Beast, he said: “Marijuana has many useful uses. I have fibromyalgia pain in this arm, and the only thing that offers any relief is marijuana.” Rather than hiding his use or couching it in euphemisms, Freeman has fully embraced cannabis as a legitimate medicine, and he wants others to have the same access.

But Freeman is not just advocating for medical use. He supports full-scale legalization, pointing to the mounting scientific evidence and international examples that show cannabis can be both safe and beneficial. He has also criticized the long-standing criminalization of cannabis, particularly for its disproportionate impact on marginalized communities.

What makes Freeman’s advocacy so compelling is his stature. When someone of his wisdom and credibility speaks up, it challenges deep-rooted stigmas and adds serious weight to the legalization movement.

5. Matthew McConaughey: Pragmatic Support for Policy and Progress

Though not a daily cannabis consumer, Matthew McConaughey has emerged as a thoughtful and influential voice in favor of decriminalization and cannabis policy reform. The actor, professor, and Texas native has expressed a keen interest in how cannabis legislation intersects with public health, education, and social equity.

McConaughey has participated in multiple forums and interviews discussing the future of cannabis in America. Notably, in 2023, he appeared alongside Woody Harrelson before the Senate Finance Committee, advocating for legislation that—while focused on school safety—also touched on broader themes of community wellness and sensible regulation. His involvement signaled a willingness to engage politically and use his platform to influence change.

His support is measured, policy-driven, and rooted in data, fitting for someone who approaches activism with the same blend of charm and pragmatism he brings to his acting. McConaughey often stresses the importance of research, education, and responsible use, making him a valuable voice for moderation in a debate that can sometimes become polarized.

By taking a balanced stance, McConaughey bridges the gap between full-blown legalization advocates and cautious skeptics, helping to build broader support for cannabis reform.

Final Thoughts: Stars Lighting the Way for Legalization

These five actors each bring their own unique stance to the fight for cannabis legalization, from entrepreneurial innovation and social justice to health advocacy and political reform. What unites them is a shared belief in cannabis as a force for good and a refusal to let outdated laws and stigmas hold back progress.

By using their platforms and personal experiences to speak out, Seth Rogen, Woody Harrelson, Whoopi Goldberg, Morgan Freeman, and Matthew McConaughey are not just advocating for cannabis—they’re helping to redefine its place in our culture and laws.

As the cannabis landscape continues to evolve, their voices serve as a reminder that advocacy comes in many forms—and that even in Hollywood, some stars are still fighting the good fight.