In a poignant disclosure, Elton John has announced he lost his sight following a severe eye infection, profoundly impacting his music and life, Deadline reported.
Elton John, the celebrated musician and composer, recently revealed during a gala performance of The Devil Wears Prada: The Musical in London that he has become sightless due to an eye infection.
The event, hosted at The Dominion Theatre, was a charity function for the Elton John AIDS Foundation, highlighting the artist's ongoing commitment to philanthropic efforts despite his challenges.
While attending the performance, for which he wrote the lyrics, John shared with the audience his new reality. He said, "I have lost my sight and I haven’t been able to see the performance but I have enjoyed listening to it,” reflecting his strong spirit in the face of adversity. The musical event thus took on a dual significance, serving both as a showcase for his artistic work and a platform for his candid revelation about his health.
John disclosed that he first lost sight in his right eye in July due to an infection contracted in the south of France. His left eye has also been affected, leaving the artist without sight for four months. This significant loss has put a pause on his ability to engage with his art fully, as visual elements play a crucial role in his musical production.
During the event, John’s husband, David Furnish, was seen assisting him off-stage, underscoring the personal support system helping him navigate this difficult period. John’s gratitude towards his husband was palpable when he addressed the audience, acknowledging Furnish's unwavering support throughout his health ordeal.
John's vision loss has not only affected his participation in public events but also his professional undertakings. He mentioned that his plans for a new album have been unavoidably delayed due to his health issues.
Recording music has become a formidable challenge, as he explained, "Because I can do something like this interview, but going into the studio and recording — I don’t know, because I can’t see a lyric for a start."
Despite these setbacks, John remains hopeful about potential recovery, though he admits to being stuck in a frustrating state of uncertainty regarding his sight.
In his comments, John often reflects on his fortune in life, despite current hardships. “I’m so lucky, I’m the luckiest man in the world,” he said, expressing an inspiring level of optimism and gratitude.
This attitude has endeared him to fans and supporters worldwide, who see in John not just a phenomenal talent but also a profound human spirit.
The news of Elton John’s vision loss is undoubtedly sorrowful, markedly so for someone whose life and career have been so visually and musically rich.
However, John's public handling of his situation showcases his characteristic charm and bravery, turning what could have been a purely sad revelation into a testament to human resilience and hope. Through this challenging time, his life’s work continues to resonate, remind, and inspire.
