The Most Famous Cigar Smokers Throughout History

Cigars have long been associated with power, sophistication, and luxury. From political leaders to Hollywood stars, many famous figures have been known to enjoy a good cigar. This article delves into the lives of some of the most iconic cigar smokers throughout history, exploring their personal stories and the impact they had on the cigar world.

Cigar culture has become a symbol of indulgence and relaxation among notable figures. Celebrities, in particular, have played a significant role in promoting this culture, intertwining it with luxury and their glamorous lifestyles. For cigar aficionados, these endorsements enhance the allure and exclusivity of premium cigars, symbolizing a luxurious lifestyle and a sophisticated palate.

Prominent figures throughout history loved to puff smoke as much as we do! Check out a few of the most famous cigar smokers from the past 100 years.

Cigars have held a prominent place in history and can be dated all the way back to the 10th century. Over that period of time, many prominent men and women have enjoyed the same pastime that we do, smoking cigars during celebrations or during their everyday lives.

Some of these prominent men and women are well known to us today and are household names that can be recognized in movies and history textbooks alike. Here are a few of the most famous cigar smokers in history.

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1. Sir Winston Churchill

The British side of the Big Three during World War 2, Sir Winston Churchill was an avid cigar smoker. He originally discovered cigars while he was a young officer stationed in Cuba, and he held his cigars dear throughout his entire life. Churchill was sometimes seen chewing cigars as a form of relaxation during stressful times.

In fact, Sir Winston Churchill actually stockpiled cigars in his home, amassing more than 4,000 in his lifetime. During times of crisis, especially during World War 2, he would light up his cigars as a form of relaxation.

2. Al Pacino

When he portrayed Tony Montana in Scarface, Al Pacino cemented himself as a symbol of cigar smoking for Americans everywhere. His representation as a macho man made the cigar a true symbol of manliness.

Since those days, Al Pacino can still be seen smoking cigars, whether on promotional tours or in his daily life. He is a true inspiration to beginners anywhere. Al Pacino has been spotted enjoying cigars at the Grand Havana Room, a popular venue among celebrity cigar smokers.

3. Jack Nicholson

While early on he may have been associated with cigarettes, Jack Nicholson can now be seen pictured with a cigar much more often. After deciding to stop smoking cigarettes, Nicholson has appreciated the simplicity and culture behind cigar smoking.

Nicholson is perhaps best known for smoking Montecristo. Jack Nicholson is a legendary actor for any generation, and his cigar smoking is just one piece of his long legacy. Recently, Nicholson has shown interest in the trend of celebrities creating their own production smoke, enhancing the appeal of the cigar industry.

4. Michael Jordan

Though it may surprise you, MJ’s legacy doesn’t just stop at basketball. The GOAT is actually one of many famous cigar smokers. In fact, he even smoked cigars during the season.

It was not uncommon to see No. 23 lighting a cigar on the Bulls’ bus. But, his nonsmoking teammates had no problem with it, so long as he kept playing the way he knew how! Like Michael Jordan, Arnold Schwarzenegger is also a well-known cigar aficionado, often seen enjoying his favorite cigars.

5. J.P. Morgan

J.P. Morgan, the renowned American financier and banker, was a true cigar aficionado who appreciated the finer things in life. Known for his pivotal role in shaping the U.S. economy, Morgan also had a deep passion for premium cigars. He was often seen with a fine Cuban cigar in hand, whether during high-stakes business meetings or at social gatherings. For Morgan, cigar smoking was more than just a hobby; it was a way to unwind and reflect after a long day of managing his vast financial empire. His favorite cigars were the exquisite Meridiana Kohinoors, a testament to his refined taste and appreciation for quality.

5. J.P. Morgan

The man who helped save the US Economy and create US Steel was also an avid cigar smoker. Though he was a private and shy person in his everyday life, JP Morgan was not afraid to bring a cigar and a tough persona to his work meetings.

Smoking and collecting cigars was one of Morgan’s favorite hobbies. His favorite cigars, in fact, were Cubans, with a particular affinity for Meridiana Kohinoors. Like J.P. Morgan, Fidel Castro was also known for his deep connection with cigars, even though he quit smoking at age 59.

Famous Women Cigar Smokers Smoke Fine Cigars

From the famous to the not-so-famous, and even some from centuries past, female cigar smokers have been indulging in a truly exquisite experience of fine cigars. George Sand (Amantine Lucile Aurore Dupin) was an acclaimed French novelist, memoirist, journalist - and of course cigar smoker!

Other female cigar smokers of note include Marie Antoinette, the last Queen of France who is said to have smoked cigars as her last act before being guillotined. Another important figure in the world of female cigar smoking is Sarah Bernhardt, a 19th century French stage actress and painter who was known to smoke cigars up until her death. Other notable women who have enjoyed a puff of a cigar include the British writer Vita Sackville-West, American singer and actor Eartha Kitt, German author and Nobel Laureate Gertrude Stein, and American socialite Nancy Cunard.

During the Victorian era in England, it was not uncommon for women to indulge in a cigar or two while out at social events with friends. In fact, many women kept small collections of their own cigars in their homes and would often purchase them from tobacconists specifically for social occasions. It was also not unusual for aristocratic women to hire tutors or attend classes that specialised in teaching individuals how to properly enjoy a cigar, demonstrating that even back then many female cigar enthusiasts were connoisseurs of taste and flavour.

In more recent times, there has been an increase in the number of female celebrity cigars smokers who are often seen enjoying their smokes on television or in movies. Some popular examples include US talk show host Ellen Degeneres, actress Angelina Jolie, supermodel Heidi Klum, singer Pink and actress Ashley Judd. While these celebrities may be known as tobacco aficionados due to their notoriety on screen, many other regular female cigar smokers indulge in this timeless pleasure away from the public eye as well.

Literary and Intellectual Figures

Explore the intellectuals and writers who found inspiration in the smoke.

Many literary and intellectual figures have found solace and inspiration in the ritual of cigar smoking. The act of lighting up a good cigar often provided a moment of reflection and creativity, helping them to produce some of their most iconic works.

• Ernest Hemingway: The legendary author was frequently seen with a cigar, whether he was penning his next novel or enjoying a moment of relaxation. Hemingway’s love for Cuban cigars, particularly the Cohiba Robustos, was well-documented, and he often credited his smoking habit with helping him focus and unwind.
• F. Scott Fitzgerald: Known for his portrayal of the Jazz Age, Fitzgerald often referenced cigars in his works, using them as symbols of luxury and sophistication. His personal favorite was the Montecristo No. 2, a choice that reflected his own taste for the finer things in life.
• Mark Twain: A prolific cigar smoker, Twain’s wit and humor were often accompanied by a cloud of cigar smoke. He famously quipped, “If I cannot smoke in heaven, then I shall not go.” Twain’s favorite cigars were the H. Upmann Coronas, which he enjoyed throughout his life.

For these intellectuals, cigar smoking was an integral part of their creative process, providing a sense of comfort and inspiration that fueled their literary genius.

Cigar Smoking in Pop Culture

Discover how cigars have been portrayed in movies, music, and more.

Cigar smoking has long been a symbol of power, sophistication, and luxury in pop culture. From iconic movie scenes to memorable music lyrics, cigars have added depth and nuance to characters and stories, making them an enduring symbol of status and personality.

• Movies: In “The Godfather,” Don Vito Corleone’s cigar smoking is a powerful symbol of his authority and control. Similarly, in “Scarface,” Tony Montana’s ever-present cigar represents his rise to power and his taste for luxury. Even James Bond, the epitome of sophistication, is often seen with a cigar, adding an extra layer of elegance to his character.
• Music: Cigars have also made their mark in the music world. Cypress Hill’s “Cigar” celebrates the joy and relaxation that comes with smoking cigars, while The Isley Brothers’ “Smoke a Cigar” uses cigars as a metaphor for luxury and indulgence. Camila Cabello’s “Cigarillo” references cigars as symbols of pleasure and sophistication.

Overall, cigar smoking has been a staple of pop culture, with cigars being used to signify wealth, power, and elegance. Whether in movies, music, or literature, the image of a cigar smoker continues to captivate and inspire, reflecting the timeless allure of this age-old tradition.

Do You Want To Join These Famous Cigar Smokers?

While these are all great men of history, anybody can be a cigar aficionado like these famous cigar smokers. All you need is a lighter, a cutter, and of course, a cigar.

If you need any recommendations, or for any and all of your cigars needs, be sure to visit our website!

Prominent figures throughout history love to puff smoke as much as we do. Check out a few of the most famous cigar smokers from the past 100 years. Cigars have held a prominent place in history and can be dated all the way back to the 10th century. Over that period of time, many prominent men and women have enjoyed the same pastime that we do, smoking cigars during celebrations or during their everyday lives. Some of these prominent men and women are well known to us today and are household names that can be recognized in movies and history textbooks alike. Here are a few of the most famous cigar smokers in history.

1. Sir Winston Churchill
2. Al Pacino
3. Jack Nicholson
4. Michael Jordan
5. J.P Morgan