Elton John is a musical legend who’s captivated audiences for decades with his talent, charisma, and unforgettable style. Known for hits like “Rocket Man” and “Your Song,” his career has spanned over five decades, making him one of the most influential artists in history. But beyond the fame and fortune, Elton’s personal life is filled with surprising twists and turns that few know about. Get ready to uncover 14 fascinating facts about Elton John that will leave you speechless!
14 True Facts About Elton John That Will Blow Your Mind
1. What Happened to Elton John’s Wife?
Elton John’s marriage to German sound engineer Renate Blauel in 1984 was one of the most unexpected events in his colorful life. Their union lasted just four years before the couple divorced in 1988. The marriage, which many assumed would be a story of everlasting love, was, in fact, a turning point in Elton’s personal life. It was during this time that Elton began confronting his true sexuality, ultimately coming out as gay. Renate later sued Elton for emotional distress, claiming their relationship’s dramatic end had a lasting impact on her. The separation wasn’t just personal; it also changed Elton’s perception of love and life.
2. What Caused Elton John’s Loss of Eyesight?
Known for his high-energy performances and iconic flamboyant style, Elton John has also dealt with his share of health struggles. One of the most shocking revelations came in the 1990s, when Elton revealed that he had lost much of his eyesight due to a condition called keratoconus. This degenerative disorder affects the cornea, leading to distorted vision. Elton underwent multiple surgeries and even considered wearing a blindfold at one point, but eventually, he had successful surgery to improve his eyesight. The incident deeply impacted Elton, who turned his adversity into an opportunity to raise awareness about blindness and eye health.
3. How Many Biological Children Does Elton John Have?
While Elton John has always been known for his over-the-top persona, his journey into fatherhood is nothing short of heartwarming. He and his husband David Furnish became parents to two boys, Zachary and Elijah, through surrogacy. The couple, who have been married since 2014, have become advocates for same-sex parenting, challenging societal norms. With their loving family unit, Elton’s experience as a father has softened his public image, showing a more tender side of the musician.
4. Why Did Elton John’s Ex-Wife Sue Him?
Elton John’s tumultuous marriage to Renate Blauel didn’t just end in divorce; it became the source of a high-profile legal battle. Renate sued Elton in 2007, accusing him of breaching their privacy agreement. In their divorce settlement, Elton had agreed not to discuss their relationship publicly, but in his autobiography, Me, he broke that promise. The lawsuit accused Elton of using their marriage as a “means of exploitation,” a claim that highlighted the painful rift between them. Renate ultimately won a financial settlement, and Elton expressed regret for breaking their privacy agreement.
5. How Many Times Did Elton Get Married?
Elton John is no stranger to the institution of marriage, though his journey has been unconventional. He has tied the knot twice in his life. His first marriage, as mentioned, was to Renate Blauel. His second marriage, however, was to his longtime partner, David Furnish, in 2014. The couple had already been together for over a decade before they officially tied the knot. Despite his rocky first marriage, Elton has found lasting love with David, and their union has been an inspiration to many in the LGBTQ+ community.
6. Why Does Elton John Walk So Slowly?
Ever noticed Elton John walking with a deliberate, slow pace, even when he’s not in the spotlight? It’s more than just a quirky habit; it’s due to an ongoing health condition. Elton suffers from a chronic hip issue that was caused by years of high-energy performances and rigorous rehearsals. This problem, combined with an earlier back surgery, affects his mobility. Despite the slower pace, Elton continues to captivate audiences worldwide with his dynamic performances.
7. Why Does Elton John Wear Sunglasses All the Time?
Elton John’s signature look is never complete without his sunglasses. But it’s not just a fashion statement. The musician has admitted that his penchant for shades is deeply connected to his mental health struggles and his discomfort with his public persona. Sunglasses give him a sense of privacy in an otherwise chaotic world. They became his shield during difficult times in his career, particularly when dealing with addiction and emotional turmoil. Now, they remain a key part of his style, representing both personal and professional protection.
8. Who Is Elton John Leaving His Money To?
While Elton John has accumulated a fortune over the years, his charitable giving has been just as significant. Through the Elton John AIDS Foundation, he has donated millions to fight HIV/AIDS and support marginalized communities. But when it comes to his estate, Elton’s wealth is largely being left to his two sons, Zachary and Elijah. The musician has also set up various trusts and foundations in their names, ensuring they continue his legacy of giving back. Despite his public persona, Elton is known for his generosity and dedication to social causes.
9. How Old Was Elton John When He Had a Baby?
Becoming a father was a dream come true for Elton John, who welcomed his first child, Zachary, at the age of 63. While many would consider this a late stage in life to become a parent, Elton and his husband David Furnish were determined to have a family. With the help of a surrogate, they welcomed Zachary in December 2010. Just a few years later, they expanded their family with another son, Elijah, who was born in 2013. Elton’s late fatherhood is a testament to his belief in living life on his own terms.
10. Where Does Elton John Live Now?
Elton John’s taste in real estate is as lavish as his stage wardrobe. He and his family currently live in a sprawling mansion in the West Hollywood Hills, known as one of the most luxurious homes in Los Angeles. The property boasts panoramic views, multiple bedrooms, and an impressive art collection. When he’s not touring or in the studio, Elton enjoys the tranquility of his mansion, which offers a stark contrast to the fast-paced life of a rock star. It’s a safe haven for him and his family, a space where they can relax and live in privacy.
11. Is Elton John a Diabetic?
Yes, Elton John is a diabetic. He was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in 2015, a condition that requires regular management of blood sugar levels. This revelation shocked fans, as Elton has always maintained an active lifestyle, but it’s a reminder that even rock stars are not immune to health challenges. Since his diagnosis, Elton has made significant changes to his diet and exercise routine, demonstrating his commitment to living a long and healthy life for his family and fans.
12. Why Did Elton John Not Speak to His Mother?
Elton John’s relationship with his mother, Sheila, was famously strained. For many years, the two were estranged, with Elton revealing in interviews that his mother was emotionally distant and unloving. Their relationship reached a breaking point after Elton’s father passed away, and they never reconciled before Sheila’s death in 2017. Despite his success, Elton admitted that the lack of a maternal bond affected him deeply, and he openly discussed the pain it caused in his memoir Me.
13. Are Elton John’s Kids Biological?
Although Elton John and David Furnish’s two children, Zachary and Elijah, are not biologically related to them, they are just as much their children as if they had been born to them. The couple opted for surrogacy, with both of their sons being born through the help of a surrogate mother. Elton has always been vocal about his love for his children, and their non-biological status has never diminished his bond with them.
14. Who Was Elton John’s First Lover?
Before his high-profile marriage to Renate Blauel, Elton John’s first significant relationship was with a man named John Reid. Reid was also Elton’s manager and played a pivotal role in his rise to stardom. Their passionate relationship was marked by both love and turbulence, with Reid being one of the key figures in Elton’s life during the 1970s. The romance ultimately ended, but their friendship lasted for many years, and Reid remained an important part of Elton’s professional life.
Summary
Elton John’s life is anything but ordinary. From his rocky marriages to his heartwarming experience as a father, the musician has faced countless challenges. Yet, his resilience and ability to reinvent himself have made him a true icon. Whether it’s his battle with health issues or his ongoing fight for social causes, Elton John continues to be a source of inspiration for millions around the world. His story is proof that even the most flamboyant stars have their share of struggles, making his journey all the more captivating.
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