Richard Fortus Exposes Slash’s Wild Personal Interests Outside Of Work Featuring 80 Giant Reptiles: “He kept massive anacondas that could easily swallow a human whole!”
Slash may be known worldwide for his top hat, sunglasses, and legendary guitar riffs, but away from the stage, the Guns N’ Roses icon once had a surprisingly unusual passion: reptiles.
According to GNR rhythm guitarist Richard Fortus, Slash’s Los Angeles home was once filled with an astonishing collection of around 80 snakes. Rather than spending his fortune only on luxury cars, rare artwork, or typical rock star trophies, Slash invested heavily in building a private reptile sanctuary.
The collection reportedly included enormous constrictors such as anacondas and Burmese pythons, along with other exotic snakes. For visitors, the experience could feel intense and unforgettable. Fortus suggested that walking into Slash’s home meant entering a world very different from the glamorous image many fans associate with rock superstardom.
For Slash, however, the animals were not just shocking decorations. His interest in reptiles came from genuine fascination. He studied them, cared for them, and became deeply attached to the quiet, strange rhythm of keeping such creatures. While many celebrities chased red carpets and industry parties, Slash often seemed happier spending time around his snakes.
That unusual hobby also showed a softer and more focused side of the guitarist. Behind the wild reputation of Guns N’ Roses was a man with patience, curiosity, and a serious respect for animals many people fear. His reptile obsession became one of the most memorable examples of how different his private life was from his public image.
Eventually, Slash had to make a major change. When his eldest son, London, was born in 2002, he reportedly chose to rehome the collection for safety reasons. As much as he loved the reptiles, fatherhood came first. The decision marked the end of one era in his personal life, but it did not end his love for herpetology.
Even today, Slash remains known as a passionate reptile advocate. His interest in snakes has continued to be part of his identity beyond music, proving that his creativity and intensity were never limited to the guitar.
Richard Fortus’ recollection adds another fascinating layer to Slash’s legend. The same musician who helped create some of rock’s most unforgettable songs also found peace in one of the most unconventional hobbies imaginable. For Slash, giant reptiles were not a gimmick. They were a lifelong passion.
