Smoking rates in America have fallen dramatically—from 42.6 percent in 1965 to 11.6 percent in 2024—yet the habit persists in entertainment culture. Some celebrities continue to smoke, whether because of artistic personas, personal rituals or the allure of rebellion. This article profiles five well known figures who have been publicly linked to smoking in recent years. We discuss who they are, why they remain culturally relevant and how smoking fits (or contrasts with) their public image. It’s not intended to glamorise smoking; health authorities emphasise that tobacco use causes serious diseases such as lung cancer, pneumonia and emphysema.
Lady Gaga
Who she is: Lady Gaga (Stefani Germanotta) is a Grammy and Oscar winning singer, songwriter and actor known for her powerful vocals, avant garde fashion and activism.
Cultural relevance: Since her 2008 debut, Gaga has continually reinvented her sound and image. She earned critical acclaim for A Star Is Born (2018) and continues to headline stadium tours.
Relationship with smoking: Gaga has been candid about smoking. In a 2010 interview, she said she enjoys smoking and drinking whisky because it frees her mind. Though she has publicly tried to quit, paparazzi photos occasionally show her with a cigarette. Smoking fits her image of rebellious artistry and retro glamour, though fans hope she prioritises her health.
Lana Del Rey
Who she is: Lana Del Rey (Elizabeth Grant) is an American singer songwriter celebrated for her cinematic, melancholy music and nostalgic Americana visuals.
Cultural relevance: Del Rey’s albums—from Born to Die to Chemtrails over the Country Club—have cultivated a devoted fan base. Her lyrics and persona evoke 1950s Hollywood glamour blended with contemporary themes.
Relationship with smoking: Del Rey is frequently spotted smoking on stage and in music videos. Cigarettes serve as props that reinforce her noir aesthetic and themes of longing and decadence. Despite critique from health advocates, they remain part of her brand’s visual language.
Ashley Olsen
Who she is: Ashley Olsen is an American fashion designer and former child actress. She and her twin sister Mary Kate famously starred in films and TV shows before pivoting to the luxury fashion label The Row.
Cultural relevance: The Row is known for minimalist, high quality designs and is a staple among celebrities and fashion insiders. The Olsen twins maintain a low public profile, fuelling intrigue around their personal lives.
Relationship with smoking: Ashley Olsen is often photographed smoking. Paparazzi images show her taking cigarette breaks during fashion events or while walking in New York. Smoking adds to her aloof, bohemian aura and contrasts with the polished minimalism of her designs.
Anya Taylor Joy
Who she is: Anya Taylor Joy is an actor known for her roles in The Queen’s Gambit, Emma, Last Night in Soho and The Northman.
Cultural relevance: Taylor Joy’s performance in The Queen’s Gambit earned her a Golden Globe, and she continues to star in films across genres. Her distinct features and fashion sense have made her a fashion icon.
Relationship with smoking: While filming The Queen’s Gambit, Taylor Joy admitted to smoking to cope with the long hours and burnout. She has been photographed smoking off set, though she has since stated she wants to quit for health reasons. Her candour about burnout resonates with young professionals who struggle with overwork.
Bono
Who he is: Bono (Paul David Hewson) is the lead singer of U2, one of the world’s most successful rock bands. He is also known for his activism around poverty, HIV/AIDS and global development.
Cultural relevance: U2’s extensive catalogue and record breaking tours make Bono a global icon. Beyond music, he collaborates with political leaders to champion humanitarian causes.
Relationship with smoking: According to a profile of celebrity cigar smokers, Bono enjoys cigarillos and occasionally smokes cigars. He tends to keep his habit private, perhaps to maintain his image as a socially conscious activist. Cigarillos offer a quick smoke without the time commitment of larger cigars. If you’re curious about trying cigarillos, check out Al Capone retailers, which stock a variety of small cigars and cigarillos. Yet even cigarillos contain nicotine and other chemicals that pose health risks; moderation and informed choices are essential.
Smoking culture in entertainment
Despite declining smoking rates, cigarettes and cigars continue to feature in films, music videos and paparazzi culture. In many cases, smoking is used as a visual shorthand for rebellion, nostalgia or stress. Celebrities may smoke to maintain an aesthetic or as a personal ritual. However, health experts stress that smoking remains a major cause of preventable disease, and fans should avoid emulating their idols in this respect. Some artists use nicotine to manage performance anxiety or maintain focus, but research shows that while nicotine can enhance attention and memory, it is highly addictive and carries significant health risks. Adults who do not use tobacco should avoid starting.
Conclusion
These five celebrities demonstrate that smoking persists in popular culture, often tied to image, ritual or personal stress management. Their stories underscore the tension between glamour and health, nostalgia and progress. As society continues to move toward smoke free norms, fans can appreciate their art without adopting their smoking habits.