Sir Elton John, one of the most iconic musicians of our time, has revealed some of his most personal thoughts on mortality and health as he approaches his twilight years. At 77, Elton reflects on his life and the future, expressing uncertainty about how much time he has left, particularly as he nears the end of his farewell tour. The renowned singer's candid revelations were captured during his new documentary, Never Too Late, which premiered recently.
Over the years, Elton has faced numerous health challenges, including multiple surgeries. Notably, he underwent knee and hip replacements and has been vocal about his battle with prostate cancer. This recent health history has contributed to his introspective mindset about life and death, prompting him to ponder the legacies he will leave behind.
While sitting in the dressing room of Dodger Stadium, where he performed for the first time 47 years earlier, Elton remarked, "I wonder what is going to happen to all of this stuff when I finish? This is the latter time of my life. I don’t know how much time I have left. You think about life and, er, and death. You think, ‘Well, I just want to be where I want to be now.'" His words echo the sentiments of someone who has been around the block—and now, more than ever, values the time left.
His thoughts extend beyond himself; he also reflects on his family’s concerns. Elton is the proud father of two sons, Zachary, aged 13, and Elijah, aged 11, with his husband, David Furnish. He worries not just for himself but for how his age and health issues affect his children. He shared, "They worry as they know how old I am. Not so much David but me. They love their Daddy so they want me to be around forever. I want to be around forever. I want to see them have children, get married but I don’t think I am going to be around for..."
He acknowledges the weight of thoughts like these. There’s humor woven through his seriousness; following light-hearted observations about losing various body parts to surgery, he quipped, "The only thing left to me is my left hip. But I’m still here.” The levity serves as both armor and balm, allowing him to address heavy topics with grace.
Elton's Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour, which he concluded last July after performing 330 concerts worldwide, has been described as both triumphant and bittersweet. With such achievements behind him, he’s made it clear he doesn’t intend to work extensively anymore. He joked, "I don’t have to work after this. I will work and do records and putting radio shows together but travelling takes so much out of you. It is very tiring. I am used to it. I am a veteran at it but this is where you start to think about mortality." The exhaustion of touring was clear, and after years on the road, he seems ready for different shades of life.
The documentary, Never Too Late, is not only focused on his struggles and introspections but also serves as closure to fans who have followed his career for decades. From glitzy performances to heartfelt moments, it encapsulates the essence of Elton John—the entertainer, the father, the husband, and the aging rock star aware of his legacy.
At the film's screening, he discussed the importance of cherishing every moment. "I want to make the best of my time when I am around. Our time together is so wonderful and so precious," Elton passionately stated. This desire for quality time has been amplified by recent health challenges, showcasing how his past experiences have shaped his present perspectives.
Fans have stood by him through thick and thin, and Elton's candidness has likely reinforced their love and admiration. He has transformed his trials and tribulations—which could easily lead to despair—into lessons about resilience and gratitude. The singer's lengthy career has been filled with both dazzling highs and challenging lows, making his story relatable on many fronts.
Elton John is also using his platform to address broader issues related to health and well-being, especially as they pertain to aging. His willingness to share not just the glamorous aspects of fame but also his vulnerability is refreshing. During the making of Never Too Late, he opened up about health concerns, touching on topics many people shy away from. His transparency encourages conversations about mortality, something everyone grapples with eventually.
Through this process, Elton is undoubtedly reinforcing the adage about making every day count. It's not about living fearfully but embracing what we can learn from every moment we have. His encounters with health issues have not weakened his spirit; rather, they have fortified his resolve to cherish his remaining days. With close friends and family supporting him, and fans worldwide cheering him on, he is committed to making the most out of the time he has left.
While the discussions may be sobering, they are also filled with hope, familial love, and the determination to keep creating and performing as long as he is able. Fans can certainly expect more music and heartfelt messages from the pop icon, who refuses to let age or health define him. Undoubtedly, Sir Elton John will continue to inspire both with his music and his life's lessons, making him not just a musical legend but also a beacon of resilience for many.
