Elton John says the loss of sight in his right eye has negatively impacted his ability record new music. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times)
Elton John’s friends are reportedly growing increasingly concerned about his health as he continues to push through an intense work schedule despite ongoing health issues. A source close to the legendary musician shared with The Sun, “Elton’s friends are seriously concerned about how much he has taken on and believe it is having a major impact on his health.
Quite a few people who he is close to have now encouraged him to slow down because he has been busier than ever this year.” The source added, “He isn’t getting any younger, and his health has been deteriorating in the past few years.”
John, who turned 77 this year, has been extremely busy since completing his 330-date Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour. He has also launched two musicals: Tammy Faye on Broadway and The Devil Wears Prada in London. Despite his promise that his farewell tour would allow him to spend more time at home, he has continued working at an intense pace.
The insider noted, “The whole point of his farewell tour was that he would be home more once it finished, but he is still working to an intense schedule; something has to give.” During the West End premiere of The Devil Wears Prada on Sunday, December 1, Elton gave an emotional speech where he spoke candidly about the challenges he’s facing due to his eyesight loss.
Elton’s 62-year-old husband, David Furnish, was by his side, helping him off the stage. In his speech, Elton thanked David for being his “rock” as he prepared for the show’s opening, sharing, “It’s hard for me to see it, but I love to hear it.”
Elton has previously revealed that he has been experiencing difficulty seeing out of his right eye for several months and that his left eye “is not the greatest” due to a serious infection. It remains unclear whether this condition is temporary, but Elton’s commitment to his work seems unshaken, despite concerns about his health.
As he continues to perform and manage multiple projects, it’s clear that Elton John’s inner circle hopes he will consider slowing down in order to prioritize his well-being.
