Elton John, the legendary singer and songwriter, has been candid about his health struggles throughout his career. Recently, at the New York Film Festival on October 1, during the premiere of his new documentary Elton John: Never Too Late, he shared some startling details about his medical history. Over the years, the 77-year-old music icon has undergone numerous surgeries and procedures, resulting in the removal of several organs. Elton’s journey has been marked by resilience, humor, and a determination to keep going despite significant health challenges.
The 77-year-old singer attended the premiere of his new documentary on Tuesday. Credit: Jamie McCarthy / Getty
Opening Up About Health Struggles
At the premiere, directed by his husband David Furnish and JR Cutler, Elton John addressed the audience with a heartfelt speech. The documentary, which features rare concert footage, diary entries, and personal moments from his life, gave the singer a platform to reflect on his health challenges. He humorously mentioned, “To be honest with you, there’s not much of me left.” But despite his long list of surgeries, Elton remains optimistic and grateful.
The Organs Elton John Has Had Removed
During his speech, Elton revealed that over the years, multiple organs have been removed due to various health issues. He shared, “I don’t have tonsils, adenoids, or an appendix. I don’t have a prostate. I don’t have a right hip, or a left knee or a right knee. In fact, the only thing left to me is my left hip… But I’m still here.” His ability to maintain humor in the face of such adversity is a testament to his enduring spirit.
Elton John’s health journey has been a complex one, with several surgeries addressing different medical conditions. These surgeries, while necessary, have reshaped his physical body, yet he continues to thrive and inspire others with his openness and resilience.
A Career Filled with Highs and Health Challenges
Throughout his five-decade-long career, Elton John has faced a number of serious health issues. From a pacemaker surgery in 1999 to treat an irregular heartbeat, to battling influenza, bacterial infections, and more, his journey has not been without its hurdles. But despite these obstacles, he has never let his health issues define him or slow him down for too long.
In 2013, doctors discovered an abscess on Elton’s appendix, and the singer had to undergo emergency surgery. The procedure saved his life, but it was one more addition to his extensive medical history. Elton’s ability to perform and entertain while dealing with such serious health issues is nothing short of remarkable.
The Impact of His Farewell Tour and Retirement
Elton John officially retired from touring last year after completing his highly celebrated Farewell Yellow Brick Road world tour. The tour marked a significant chapter in his career, as it was his final curtain call after decades of performing across the globe. His health played a major role in this decision, as the rigorous demands of touring became increasingly difficult for him to manage.
The documentary Never Too Late captures not only the brilliance of Elton’s musical career but also the struggles he faced behind the scenes, many of which were related to his health. His decision to retire from touring was partly motivated by his desire to spend more time with his family—his husband David Furnish and their two sons, Zachary and Elijah.
David Furnish, Elton John, and R. J. Cutler at the Elton John: Never Too Late screening. Credit: Michael Loccisano / Getty
Continuing Health Struggles: Severe Eye Infection and Knee Surgery
Even after retiring from the stage, Elton’s health battles have continued. Just recently, in an Instagram post, he revealed that he has been dealing with a “severe eye infection” that has left him with limited vision in one eye. The healing process, according to Elton, has been slow, but he remains positive. He shared with his fans, “I am healing, but it’s an extremely slow process, and it will take some time before sight returns to the impacted eye.”
This revelation came just months after Elton underwent knee replacement surgery, which left him unable to attend the 2022 Emmy Awards where he won in the Outstanding Variety Special (Live) category. Despite his limited mobility after the surgery, Elton’s determination to recover and remain active is inspiring.
Finding Strength in Family and Support
Through all of these trials, Elton credits his family and the excellent care he has received from medical professionals for helping him through the most challenging moments. “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,” he said after revealing his eye infection.
Elton’s family has been a tremendous source of strength for him, particularly his husband David and their two sons. At the film premiere, Elton expressed his deep gratitude to them, saying, “I want to thank David and Zachary and Elijah for making me the happiest man in the world.” His focus has shifted towards spending more time with his loved ones, ensuring that his remaining years are filled with joy, love, and cherished moments with his family.
A Legacy of Resilience
Elton John’s health journey is a powerful testament to his resilience. Despite the many surgeries, health scares, and long recovery processes, Elton continues to live life on his terms. His transparency about his health struggles has only deepened his fans’ admiration for him.
Even though his touring days are behind him, Elton’s legacy in the music industry remains unparalleled. His openness about his physical limitations reminds the world that even legends face obstacles—but what makes someone truly iconic is how they overcome them.
Conclusion: Elton John’s Unstoppable Spirit
Elton John’s career has been marked by highs, lows, and a seemingly endless list of surgeries and medical challenges. Yet, through it all, he has maintained his humor, strength, and dedication to the things that matter most—his music and his family. The removal of multiple organs and the persistent health struggles have not slowed him down. Instead, Elton continues to inspire through his courage and unshakable positivity.
His story is one of resilience, and it serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, life can be lived to the fullest. Elton John remains a symbol of endurance and hope, proving that no matter the challenges, he will always be standing—left hip and all.
