Michael's weed warning

Showbiz

13:30 01 March 2006

George Michael's friends are begging him to give up smoking cannabis.

Pals of the 'Careless Whisper' singer are worried about his alleged growing dependence on the drug, but he is refusing to turn his back on weed.

A source close to the star told Britain's Daily Mirror newspaper: "It's affecting his concentration and obviously has a big impact on his lifestyle at the moment.

"He needs to stop smoking so much, in fact it would probably be better if he left the weed alone completely."

Michael was arrested in the early hours of Sunday (26.02.06) after being found slumped over the wheel of his car, possessing class C drugs, and with a boot full of sex toys and gay porn.

The star is still waiting to find out whether he will be formally charged with any offence.

Friends blame the former Wham! frontman's recent behaviour on a heavy work load - finishing off a new album and the stress of planning his first tour since 1991.

One said: "George has got to be totally focussed on his music and his work if this is to come off.

"He also needs to be physically fit to cope with a big tour and apart from anything else. Smoking weed is bad for his throat and won't help his voice."

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