For decades, Keith Richards built a reputation as one of rock music’s most notorious survivors. The Rolling Stones guitarist became almost as famous for his hard-partying lifestyle as he did for helping create some of the biggest songs in rock history.
Now, at 82 years old, Richards is reflecting on how much his life has changed over the years, revealing that he quit smoking cigarettes several years ago and has embraced a much slower pace than the one that once defined him.
Speaking in a recent interview with The Guardian, Richards admitted that giving up cigarettes came after a surprising realization.
“Suddenly, I felt like after all these years of smoking. Because, you know, a man smokes. I was sat around with this silly thing in my mouth thinking: how childish,” Richards explained.
Keith Richards Says Quitting Cigarettes Changed His Perspective
The music icon said he quit smoking cigarettes about six years ago, a decision that marked one of the biggest lifestyle changes of his later years. However, he was quick to point out that he hasn’t completely abandoned every vice.
“It was that that put me off more than anything, although I smoke a lot of weed,” Richards admitted.
Richards also explained, according to People Magazine, that he decided to cut back on some of his habits after realizing he needed to make changes if he wanted to keep going.
“You tend to slow down if you want to keep going. You pace yourself,” he said.
The comments offer a rare glimpse into how the legendary guitarist now views aging and longevity after decades of living life at full speed.
Life in Connecticut Has Given Richards a Different Perspective
These days, Richards spends much of his time at his longtime home in Connecticut, far removed from the chaotic lifestyle that once followed him around the world.
The state recently recognized the rock legend’s decades-long residency and philanthropic contributions by presenting him with the inaugural Governor’s Award of Excellence. According to NBC Connecticut, the honor celebrated both his cultural impact and community involvement.
During the ceremony, Richards was also presented with a lifetime library card, which he jokingly suggested was more meaningful than receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The quieter setting appears to have given Richards an opportunity to focus more on family, reflection, and the things that matter most to him.
Becoming a Great-Grandfather Has Changed the Way He Looks at Life
Another major milestone recently arrived when Richards became a great-grandfather. The musician has spoken enthusiastically about the experience, describing it as a completely new chapter in his life. He joked that spending time with younger generations has become one of his favorite activities, saying he enjoys letting them “hang” with him for as long as possible before handing them back to their parents.
The arrival of a great-grandchild has also encouraged Richards to spend more time looking back on the remarkable life he has lived. For someone who spent decades pushing boundaries and defying expectations, the milestone has offered a fresh perspective on family, legacy, and longevity.
The Rolling Stones Continue Looking Ahead
Despite entering his ninth decade, Richards isn’t focused on retirement. The Rolling Stones remain active, with the band continuing to release new music and pursue new creative projects. While Richards admitted that thoughts about the future occasionally cross his mind, he says they are not something he spends much time dwelling on.
Instead, he remains focused on moving forward and enjoying the life he has built. Fans have spent decades watching Richards live one of rock music’s most unpredictable lives. Yet his latest chapter may be among his most surprising.
With family milestones, life in Connecticut, and a renewed focus on moderation, Richards appears to be embracing a future centered on longevity rather than excess.
And after all these years, he seems perfectly content with where that path has taken him.
Joann has been interested in entertainment news since her childhood days in the 1970s. She’s a dedicated reality TV, entertainment and celebrity news junkie and writer who’s biggest guilty pleasure is everyone else’s crazy and drama filled lives. Her previous experience includes TV Shows Ace, Examiner.com, Blasting News, Soap Dirt, and more.
