Elton John Reflects on Health, Family, Music in New Documentary
Elton John, 77, recently gave a candid update about his health and life at the New York Film Festival, where his latest documentary, Elton John: Never Too Late, was showcased.
The iconic musician shared details about his physical health challenges and his decision to stop touring, which he finalized after completing his Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour in 2023, as Fox News reports, and he emphasized his gratitude for his family and his enduring love for music.
John’s talk included lighthearted moments, such as his humorous remarks about the many surgeries he's had over the years. He joked that his left hip is the only original joint he has left, offering the audience a glimpse into the toll decades of performing have taken on his body.
Family And Health Remain Central To Elton's Happiness
During his speech, Elton John expressed deep appreciation for his family. He spoke lovingly about his husband, David Furnish, and their two sons, Zachary and Elijah.
His family, he shared, has been his ultimate source of happiness and strength in recent years. "I want to thank David and Zachary and Elijah for making me the happiest man in the world," John said.
While he reflected on the joy his family brings, he also opened up about a recent health scare. Over the summer, John contracted a severe eye infection, which left him with limited vision in one eye. Though the recovery has been slow, he remains optimistic, noting that he has spent the past months recuperating at home.
Elton Reflects on Tour Retirement, Career Achievements
John took the opportunity to explain why he decided to stop touring, a decision he made after wrapping up his monumental Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour in 2023.
"As you know, I decided to stop touring because I'm 77 years of age, I've done all there is to do," he said. The singer stressed that he feels fulfilled with his accomplishments in music, remarking that he has “succeeded” in his career goals.
Despite retiring from live performances, music continues to play a crucial role in John’s life. He explained that even during challenging periods, music has been his constant companion.
"Even when I was in my darkest times, I still played music, I still recorded music," he shared, adding that music has provided him with inspiration throughout his life.
Documentary Sheds Light on Elton's Family Concerns
The documentary Elton John: Never Too Late, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival earlier in September, offers further insight into John's personal reflections.
One emotional aspect of the film is his sons' concern about his mortality. In the documentary, John mentions how Zachary and Elijah worry about his future. "They think about my mortality. They worry about my mortality," he said.
John acknowledged these fears but also expressed a desire to use his remaining years in a meaningful way. He emphasized his hope to see his sons grow up and experience key milestones in their lives, such as getting married and having children.
However, he also admitted that he may not be around for all of those moments, saying, "Who knows? You never know. So that's why I want to use the best time -- the best of my time -- while I'm around."
Looking Ahead While Cherishing the Present
Although Elton John has faced serious health challenges and decided to retire from touring, he remains positive about the future. His decision to step away from the stage was influenced by a desire to spend more time with his family and focus on the things that bring him joy, including his music.
In closing, John reiterated his deep connection to music and the vital role it has played in his life. "I've still got to make room because I'm still going to have music in my life," he said, underscoring that retirement from the stage does not equate to a farewell to music entirely.
Conclusion
Elton John continues to inspire fans with his resilience and his dedication to both his family and music. In his latest documentary, he provides a personal glimpse into his life, health, and the love he has for his family.
While he may no longer be performing live, his story, as told in Elton John: Never Too Late. reminds us of his incredible journey, his passion for music, and the importance he places on spending time with those who mean the most to him.