Elton John Opens Up About Battling Severe Infection That Threatened His Eyesight
(Dave Benett/Getty Images)
Legendary musician Elton John has revealed that he has lost his eyesight following a battle with a severe infection. The 77-year-old shared the heartbreaking news on Sunday night while addressing attendees at London’s Dominion Theatre after the premiere of The Devil Wears Prada: The Musical.
“As some of you may know, I have had issues and now I have lost my sight. I haven’t been able to see the performance, but I have enjoyed it,” John told the audience, as reported by the Daily Mail. The Grammy-winning artist credited his husband, David Furnish, for being his unwavering support during this challenging period.
“To my husband, who’s been my rock, because I haven’t been able to come to many of the previews because as you know, I’ve lost my eyesight, so it’s hard for me to see it, but I love to hear it,” John said in a heartfelt message captured in a TikTok video. “And, boy, it sounded good tonight! OK! Thank you for coming!”
John, who composed the score for The Devil Wears Prada: The Musical, praised the performance and its cast, including Tony nominee Vanessa Williams, who stars as Miranda Priestly. The charity premiere attracted a star-studded audience, including Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour, actress Lily Collins, and Elizabeth Hurley.
This isn’t the first time the music icon has opened up about his vision challenges. In September, John disclosed that he had “limited vision in one eye” due to a severe infection he suffered over the summer. “I am healing, but it’s an extremely slow process, and it will take some time before sight returns to the impacted eye,” he said in a statement at the time.
John expressed gratitude for the medical team and his family, saying, “I am so grateful for the excellent team of doctors and nurses and my family, who have taken such good care of me over the last several weeks.”
Despite his health struggles, Elton John continues to inspire fans with his resilience and dedication to his craft. His heartfelt words at the premiere showcased his determination to remain connected to his work and his audience, even in the face of profound challenges.
