Famous cigar smokers have long been revered for their love of this timeless habit, which has become synonymous with power, sophistication, and relaxation.
From world leaders to Hollywood icons, the allure of a good cigar has transcended time and cultural barriers, making it a symbol of luxury and refinement.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the fascinating lives of some of the world’s most famous cigar smokers, exploring their favorite brands, famous quotes, and iconic images that have immortalized them as true enthusiasts.
So, whether you’re a seasoned smoker or a curious novice, join us as we celebrate the enduring legacy of those who have indulged in the pleasures of a good cigar.
Winston Churchill
No list of famous cigar smokers would be complete without mentioning the British statesman Winston Churchill.
Churchill was known for his love of cigars and was rarely seen without one in his hand. He was often photographed with one in his mouth.
Churchill’s favorite cigar brand was the Cuban Romeo y Julieta. He said, “I am easily satisfied with the very best.”
He even had a room in his home called the “Cigar Room,” dedicated to smoking cigars and entertaining guests.
Churchill’s passion for cigars reflected his larger-than-life personality and his love for the finer things in life.
In fact, he was so devoted to cigars that a special cigar size was named after him – the Churchill cigar.
Zino Davidoff
The Davidoff family has been in the cigar business for over a century. Their cigars are known for their exceptional quality and taste.
Zino Davidoff himself was a legendary figure in the cigar world, and his legacy lives on through the Davidoff brand.
They offer a range of cigars, from mild to full-bodied, so there’s something for every smoker.
This gentleman even wrote a cigar etiquette guide in 1967 on how to properly smoke and enjoy cigars.
It includes tips on selecting, cutting, lighting, and smoking cigars, as well as advice on cigar storage and pairing.
Following these etiquette guidelines can enhance the smoking experience and show respect for the cigar and fellow smokers.
Edward and Eddie Sahakian
You guessed it, next on the list are no other than Edward and Eddie Sahakians.
They are famous cigar smokers and owners of Davidoff of London, a luxury cigar and tobacco shop located in the heart of London.
Known for its extensive selection of premium cigars, which includes top brands such as Cohiba, Davidoff, Montecristo, and more.
The father and son duo have become synonymous with the world of cigars, having been in the business for over four decades.
In an interview with Cigar Aficionado, Eddie Sahakian shared his thoughts on cigars, saying, “A cigar is a great way to celebrate an occasion, whether it’s a wedding, birth of a child, or just life in general.”
The Sahakians are true connoisseurs of the cigar world and have become an institution in the London cigar scene.
Mark Twain
Mark Twain, one of America’s most celebrated writers, was also a famous cigar smoker.
He was often seen puffing on a cigar while writing, and he once said, “If smoking is not allowed in heaven, I shall not go.”
He even wrote about them in some of his works, including “The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County,” published on November 18, 1865.
Twain’s favorite brand was reportedly the Jamaican-made Henry Clay cigar.
Twain’s love for cigars reflected his rebellious and independent spirit and appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. His legacy as a writer and cigar aficionado endures to this day.
Arnold Schwarzenegger
Arnold Schwarzenegger, the Austrian-born actor and former governor of California, is another famous cigar smoker.
He enjoys good cigars and has been spotted smoking them numerous times.
He claims that it helps him with his pump while lifting weights; who knows, maybe that’s true!
Another iconic thing about the Terminator is that he loves to dip his stogies into alcohol.
He uses a cedar spill drenched in Lobos tequila to stroke the cigar’s surface and make it nice and moist.
In 1989, he picked up this unique technique from a random guy in a five-star hotel in Mexico.
Michael Jordan
Michael Jordan, the legendary basketball player, is known for his love of cigars.
Jordan has publicly expressed his affinity for cigars on multiple occasions, including during an interview with Cigar Aficionado magazine.
In fact, he even has his own line of cigars called the “Michael Jordan Cigar Collection.”
Jordan’s love for cigars can be traced back to his early days in the NBA, where smoking cigars was a common pastime among players.
Over the years, Jordan has been seen smoking cigars at various events, such as championship celebrations, golf tournaments, and even during his Hall of Fame induction speech.
He has even stated that smoking cigars helps him to relax and relieve stress.
Despite the controversy surrounding smoking, Jordan’s love for cigars remains fascinating among fans and enthusiasts alike.
Bill Clinton
Bill Clinton, the former president of the United States, is a well-known cigar smoker.
In fact, he once famously said, “I didn’t inhale” when asked about his use of marijuana, but he did admit to enjoying cigars.
He was accused of sexual relations with a White House intern of some repute, Monica Lewinsky.
As part of the investigation, it was rumored that the honorable gentleman used a cigar in the act of carnal nature with Ms. Lewinsky.
Che Guevara
Che Guevara, the Argentine Marxist revolutionary, was also a cigar smoker.
Guevara favored the Cuban Cohiba brand, which he often received as a gift from Fidel Castro.
He once wrote in his diary, “A smoke in times of rest is a great companion to the solitary soldier.”
Guevara’s passion for cigars reflected his larger-than-life persona as a revolutionary leader.
His image of smoking a cigar has become an iconic symbol of rebellion and anti-establishment.
Al Pacino
Al Pacino, a titan of the silver screen, has not just portrayed cigar-loving characters like Tony Montana in “Scarface,” but he’s also a known enthusiast off the set.
Known for his roles in iconic films that have etched indelible marks in Hollywood history, Pacino’s love for cigars has often reflected in the roles he picks, blurring the lines between the characters he plays and his real-life persona.
Pacino’s love for a good stogie is no secret in Hollywood.
Off-screen, he’s been known to indulge in a premium cigar during leisurely moments or at high-profile events.
Interestingly, Pacino doesn’t just appreciate a good smoke – he understands the essence and art of cigar smoking.
He’s been quoted saying that smoking a cigar is a matter of luxury and time, that it’s about “taking the time to sit back, and appreciate the finer things in life.”
Whether on or off-screen, Al Pacino’s love for cigars is undeniable, adding an authentic touch to his performances and a unique flair to his real-life persona.
Matthew McConaughey
Matthew McConaughey, the charismatic Oscar-winning actor, has a profound affinity for the ritual of cigar smoking, viewing it as a cherished pause from his fast-paced life.
His cigar of choice, the medium-sized Romeo y Julieta Wide Churchills, mirrors his persona – smooth, balanced, and nuanced.
The Texan star’s indulgence in fine cigars is more than just a pastime; it’s a symbol of his dedication to savoring moments, appreciating craftsmanship, and seeking solace in life’s simple pleasures.
Despite the whirlwind of commitments, from acting to philanthropy to family, McConaughey’s love for a good smoke endures, encapsulating his ethos of authenticity and ‘just keep livin’.
Fidel Castro
Fidel Castro was a controversial political figure and a passionate cigar smoker who helped put Cuban cigars on the world map.
In fact, he loved cigars so much that he often gave boxes of them as gifts to foreign dignitaries.
Castro’s favorite cigar brand was Cohiba, which he reportedly helped create.
He even had a personal roller who would hand-roll cigars for him daily.
Castro once said, “A good cigar is like a beautiful woman, if you treat her right she’ll give you pleasure for a lifetime.”
Despite his controversial legacy, Castro’s love for cigars will forever be remembered in the cigar industry.
George Burns
George Burns, the legendary American comedian, was known for his love of cigars.
He began smoking cigars in his youth and continued to smoke them for over 70 years.
In fact, he was rarely seen without a cigar in his mouth, which became a trademark of his persona.
Burns was known to enjoy high-quality cigars, particularly those from Cuba.
He even had a unique humidor built into the headboard of his bed to keep his cigars fresh.
He once said, “I smoke ten to fifteen cigars a day. At my age, I have to hold on to something.”
He even attributed his longevity to his cigar-smoking habit, saying, “If I had taken my doctor’s advice and quit smoking when he advised me to, I wouldn’t have lived to go to his funeral.”
Despite concerns about the health risks of smoking, Burns continued to smoke cigars until his death at the age of 100.
Clint Eastwood
Clint Eastwood, the iconic American actor and director is another famous cigar smoker.
He is often seen smoking his favorite cigars on set and has even been known to give them as gifts to cast and crew members to celebrate the end of a film shoot.
Despite concerns about the health risks of smoking, Eastwood has remained a dedicated cigar smoker, and it has become a part of his iconic image in Hollywood.
Rush Limbaugh
Rush Limbaugh was an American radio personality and political commentator known for his love of cigars.
He often spoke about his passion for cigars on his radio show and was frequently photographed with a cigar.
Limbaugh smoked various cigars, including those made by top brands such as Montecristo and Arturo Fuente.
In addition to enjoying cigars, Limbaugh was also a cigar collector and had an extensive collection of rare and vintage cigars.
He even had a custom-made cigar room designed to showcase his collection in his home.
Despite concerns about the health risks associated with smoking, Limbaugh continued to indulge in his love of cigars until he died in 2021.
His passion for cigars was a prominent part of his public persona. He remains a beloved figure in the cigar community.
He once said, “I only smoke cigars when I’m happy, and I’m happy when I’m smoking cigars.”
Babe Ruth
Babe Ruth, one of baseball’s greatest players, was also a cigar smoker.
He was often seen smoking cigars in the dugout and even had a unique humidor built for his cigars.
Ruth’s favorite brand was El Producto; he even endorsed them in advertisements.
Despite his athletic lifestyle, Ruth enjoyed the occasional cigar to relax and unwind.
Groucho Marx
Another American comedian and actor, Groucho Marx, was rarely seen without a cigar.
Marx was known for smoking expensive cigars, such as those made by Dunhill and El Producto, and he often gave them as gifts to friends and colleagues.
Marx’s love of cigars was so well-known that he even had his brand of cigars called the “Groucho Marx Secret.”
These cigars were said to be hand-rolled and made with the finest tobacco. Despite the health risks associated with smoking, Marx smoked cigars until he died in 1977.
His love of cigars remains a part of his legacy, and he is often remembered as both a comedic genius and a cigar aficionado.
Jack Nicholson
American actor Jack Nicholson is known for his love of cigars and has been spotted smoking them on and off the screen.
He once said, “I only smoke cigars when I’m awake, and I only stop smoking them when I’m asleep.”
He has been spotted smoking cigars on the red carpet and has even been known to offer cigars to fans.
Sigmund Freud
Sigmund Freud, the famous founder of psychoanalysis, was a big fan of smoking cigars. He would often smoke up to 20 cigars daily, and it was rare to see him without a cigar.
Freud believed smoking helped him concentrate and relax, which was necessary for his work as a therapist and researcher.
Despite the health risks associated with smoking, Freud continued to smoke cigars until he died in 1939.
He even had a custom-made cigar holder to smoke cigars while working.
Although smoking is now known to harm health, Freud’s love of cigars has become part of his legacy. He is often depicted in popular culture with a cigar in his hand.
Ray Liotta
Ray Liotta is a famous cigar smoker whose love for stogies is no secret.
The Goodfellas star has been spotted puffing on cigars at events and in his personal life.
In an interview with Cigar Aficionado, Liotta shared his thoughts on cigars, saying, “I like the process of cutting it, lighting it, and taking my time with it. It’s a great time to be alone with your thoughts.”
Liotta’s favorite stogie is the Montecristo No. 2, which he enjoys for its smooth and consistent flavor.
As a cigar aficionado, Liotta is a true inspiration to those who appreciate the finer things in life.
Silvester Stallone
Sylvester Stallone is another famous cigar smoker who enjoys the pleasures of a good stogie.
The Rocky star has been known to smoke cigars on and off the screen. He has even launched his own line of premium cigars called the “Sylvester Stallone Premium Cigar Collection.”
In an interview with Cigar Aficionado, Stallone revealed that he began smoking cigars to help him quit cigarettes and has been hooked ever since.
His favorite stogie is the Hoyo de Monterrey Double Corona, which he enjoys for its smooth and rich flavor.
Ernest Hemingway
American author Ernest Hemingway was also a cigar smoker and was often photographed with a cigar in his mouth.
In fact, Hemingway’s affinity for cigars was so great that one of his favorite brands, H. Upmann, created a cigar in his honor, which is still sold today as the “H. Upmann Hemingway.”
Hemingway believed that smoking cigars helped him to relax and think more clearly, and he often gave them as gifts to friends and colleagues.
His love of cigars remains a part of his legacy, and he is often remembered as both a great writer and a connoisseur of fine cigars.
He even wrote about his love of cigars in his memoir “A Moveable Feast.”
Al Capone
American gangster Al Capone was known for his love of cigars. He was often seen smoking a cigar, even during interviews with reporters.
It was said that he would smoke up to 18 cigars a day! Capone favored high-quality cigars, such as the H. Upmann brand.
He even had a standing order for 1,000 of these cigars every month.
Despite his criminal activities, Capone enjoyed the finer things in life, and a good cigar was one of his indulgences.
He even had a custom-made cigar humidor in his office.
Samuel L. Jackson
American actor Samuel L. Jackson is another cigar aficionado.
Jackson is known to enjoy a variety of cigars, including those made by top brands such as Cohiba and Montecristo.
In addition to his love of cigars, Jackson has also collaborated with the cigar brand “Black Label Trading Company” to create his own signature cigar line called “Hitman.”
The cigars are made with high-quality tobacco and have a unique flavor profile.
Jackson has been outspoken about his love of cigars and has even been featured in Cigar Aficionado magazine.
He has also hosted charity cigar events to support various causes.
Sean Connery
Sean Connery, the late Scottish actor known for his iconic portrayal of James Bond, was also well-known for his love of cigars.
He was often seen smoking cigars on and off-screen and was considered a connoisseur of fine cigars.
Connery once said, “There’s something about smoking a cigar that feels like a celebration. It’s like a fine wine. There’s a quality, workmanship, a passion that goes into creating a fine cigar.”
Connery’s fondness for cigars reflected his appreciation for the finer things in life and his ability to enjoy them in moderation.
He even smoked a cigar in the 1999 Bond film “The World Is Not Enough.”
Andy Garcia
Cuban-American actor Andy Garcia is known for his love of cigars.
In addition to his love of cigars, Garcia is also a cigar brand owner.
He co-founded the cigar brand “Cao,” which has become a famous brand among cigar enthusiasts.
The brand offers a variety of cigar blends and styles and has won several awards in the cigar industry.
He has even partnered with cigar maker Gurkha Cigars to create his own line of cigars called “The Game.”
Garcia has also used his love of cigars to support various charitable causes.
He has hosted charity cigar events and auctions, with proceeds going to organizations such as the American Cancer Society and the Cigar Family Charitable Foundation.
Garcia’s passion for cigars is a well-known part of his public persona. He remains a beloved figure in the cigar community.
Walter White
Okay, he may be a fictional character from “Breaking Bad,” but let’s be honest, Walter White’s love for cigars was just as real as his passion for chemistry.
Who can forget the scene where he smokes a cigar while sitting on his patio, plotting his next move?
And let’s not forget that the iconic Heisenberg hat was often accompanied by a cigar in his mouth.
Tony Soprano
Another fictional character, but a famous cigar smoker nonetheless.
Tony Soprano, the mob boss from “The Sopranos,” was rarely seen without a cigar in his hand.
The protagonist James Gandolfini often smoked the Hoyo de Monterrey Excalibur and the Montecristo No. 2.
Michael Douglas
Michael Douglas is a famous cigar smoker who has enjoyed the pleasures of a good stogie for many years.
The actor famously portrayed Gordon Gekko in the movie Wall Street, a character known for his love of cigars, and the iconic line “Greed, for lack of a better word, is good.”
In real life, Douglas has been seen smoking cigars at events and in his personal life.
His favorite stogie is the Arturo Fuente Hemingway, which he enjoys for its smooth and balanced flavor.
As a successful actor and producer, Douglas is a true inspiration to those who appreciate the finer things in life, including a good cigar.
Steve Harvey
In the world of famous cigar smokers, comedian, and television host Steve Harvey stands out with his unabashed passion for cigars.
Harvey, known for his humor and charismatic presence, is just as enthusiastic about his stogies as he is about delivering a punchline.
It’s not just about enjoying a smoke for him; cigars are his form of relaxation, his escape from the whirlwind of constant work, and, as he describes it, his very own version of yoga.
Harvey’s affair with cigars started back in 1997, and since then, his appreciation for the art of smoking his favorite ones only deepened.
Hugh Jackman
The renowned Australian actor, Hugh Jackman, has a well-documented love affair with cigars, an indulgence he shares with his on-screen persona, Wolverine.
Off-set, he’s often spotted with a premium cigar in hand, an accessory as effortlessly charismatic as the man himself.
A discerning cigar aficionado, Jackman doesn’t merely smoke cigars – he celebrates them.
Conclusion
Cigar smoking has a long and storied history that many famous and influential people have enjoyed throughout the years.
From Winston Churchill to Arnold Schwarzenegger, cigars have been a symbol of luxury and sophistication.
Without a doubt, these famous cigar smokers have left their mark on the world of cigars.
And will surely continue to be remembered for their love of this timeless pastime.
