Celebrities Who Now Stop Smoking And What Causes Them To Stopped

Smoking is one of the leading causes of preventable deaths worldwide, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and cancer, as highlighted by the American Heart Association (AHA).

Despite this, many people find it challenging to kick the habit, including celebrities. However, some stars have successfully quit smoking, inspiring others to follow suit.

This article takes a look at 8 celebrities who quit smoking and why they stopped.

1. Tonto Dikeh

Nollywood actress Tonto Dikeh is one of the celebrities who publicly spoke about her struggle with smoking addiction. In 2012, Dikeh revealed her decision to quit smoking after battling with the habit for years. However, it wasn't until 2018 that she found a tangible reason to give up smoking for good.

Why she quit:

In an interview, the actress shared that she quit smoking because she wanted to be able to donate blood for her son if he ever needed it. This powerful motivation helped her stay committed to quitting and lead a healthier lifestyle.

2. Kizz Daniel

Nigerian singer and songwriter Kizz Daniel recently made headlines for his decision to quit smoking in 2022.

Why he quit:

According to reports, the singer made the life-changing decision because of his sons, he wants to be a better father. This move is commendable, as smoking is a difficult habit to break, and it takes a lot of commitment and willpower to succeed.

3. Gwyneth Paltrow

Gwyneth Paltrow, known for her health-conscious lifestyle, was once a heavy smoker, consuming two packs a day. Even her father's death from cancer did not deter her from smoking.

Why she quit:

Gwyneth Paltrow quit smoking when she found out she was pregnant with her first daughter. This motivated her to kick the habit and focus on a healthier lifestyle.

4. Jon Stewart

Emotional emptiness led comedian Jon Stewart to use cigarettes as a coping mechanism. According to him, smoking made him feel better in the moment.

Why he quit:

Jon Stewart realized that smoking was detrimental to his health in the long run. This realization helped him to quit smoking and focus on healthier habits.

5. Gisele Bundchen

Supermodel Gisele Bundchen, like many models, used smoking as a tool to maintain her figure.

Why she quit:

Bundchen quit smoking in 2003 to create a healthier life for herself and her family. She claims that she gained 15 pounds when she quit, but was much happier with her new, healthier body.

6. Catherine Zeta-Jones

Catherine Zeta-Jones was a heavy smoker. She was even photographed smoking while pregnant in 2003, putting her unborn child at risk. 

Why she quit:

In 2005, Catherine Zeta-Jones vowed to quit for her children.

7. Michael Douglas

Actor Michael Douglas also struggled with a smoking addiction, which likely contributed to a cancerous tumor found in his throat in 2011. 

Why he quit:

Douglas made the effort to quit smoking when a cancerous tumor was found in his throat in 2011. Smoking is strongly discouraged during radiation treatment, so Douglas had to quit smoking to receive treatment.

8. Anthony Bourdain

Celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain smoked for 38 years before quitting in 2007. 

Why he quit:

Anthony Bourdain quit smoking in 2007 when he realized it was harder to smoke than to quit. He could no longer smoke in his apartment after his daughter was born, so he had to walk down 11 flights of stairs to smoke outside every time he wanted a cigarette. This inconvenience helped him to realize that it was time to quit for good.


If you're struggling with smoking addiction, these celebrities' stories show that quitting is possible with determination and the right approach.