While Elton John is renowned for his legendary career, the 77-year-old music icon is now grappling with the reality of his mortality, especially as his two young sons express their fears of losing him.
As one of the few EGOT winners and a figure whose six-decade legacy will forever influence the arts, Elton acknowledges that the passage of time feels more pressing. The «Rocket Man,» who has endured significant health challenges and has been described as a «ticking time bomb,» understands his sons’ worries about his absence from pivotal moments in their lives.
Reflecting on his children, Zachary, 13, and Elijah, 11, Elton shares in a candid moment: “They think about my mortality. They’re worried about me.” He adds, “Not so much David, but me,” referring to his husband, David Furnish.
Elton explains that his sons’ love fuels their fears, saying, “They adore their daddy, and they want me to be around forever. And honestly, I’d love to be around forever too.” Yet, he admits the inevitable, saying, “I want to see them grow up, get married, and have children. But I probably won’t be here for all of that. Who knows? Life is unpredictable. That’s why I treasure the time we have now—it’s priceless.”
Facing Mortality
David Furnish reveals that Elton struggled with anxiety while reflecting on moments focused on his mortality in the film documenting his life. “It’s not a conversation you want to have with your kids,” Furnish says. “I don’t want to plant that thought in their minds. Elton has faced so much, but he’s incredibly resilient. He rarely cancels shows—he’s strong, like an ox, and a natural healer. Honestly, he might outlive me.”
Furnish also shares how fatherhood transformed Elton’s priorities. “When we had the boys, it was an instant epiphany for him. That’s when he decided to step away from touring for good.”
Now, after 30 years together, the couple cherishes a new chapter in their lives. “He’s truly happy,” Furnish says. “We’ve finally reached this place we’ve always dreamed of—a life where we can simply enjoy being together as a family.”