Sir Elton John, the 77-year-old iconic British singer-songwriter, has announced that he’s been left partially blinded in one eye after battling a severe infection over the summer.
In a message shared on his Instagram account to his 4.9 million followers, Sir Elton wrote:
Over the summer, I’ve been dealing with a severe eye infection that has unfortunately left me with only limited vision in one eye. I am healing, but it’s an extremely slow process and it will take some time before sight returns to the impacted eye.
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 the setback, Sir Elton wrote that he remains optimistic about his recovery.
“I am feeling positive about the progress I have made in my healing and recovery so far,” he said.
This eye infection is the latest in a series of health challenges for the music legend.
In recent years, Sir Elton has faced several medical issues, including a hip surgery in September 2021 following an awkward fall, which led to the postponement of some dates on his “Farewell Yellow Brick Road” tour.
Sir Elton also suffered a dangerous fall at his villa in Nice, France, last year, which resulted in hospitalization.
Despite his limited eyesight, John is expected to appear on the red carpet at the premiere of his documentary at the Toronto International Film Festival later this week. The film is billed as an intimate look at the highs and lows of his early years, and how he became the icon he is today.
Numerous celebrities and fans have sent their well-wishes to the singer.
“Take your time and recover, Elton. We’ll be here waiting for your return when you’re healthy and ready,” fashion designer Donatella Versace commented.
Other celebrities offering well wishes included radio presenter Bob Harris, actor Layton Williams, singers Natalie Imbruglia and Hannah Waddingham, Food Network star Sandra Lee, and model Linda Evangelista.
Sir Elton, known for hits like “Rocket Man,” “I’m Still Standing,” and “Candle in the Wind,” concluded his farewell tour “Farewell Yellow Brick Road” in Stockholm, Sweden, in July 2023. The tour was postponed for years due to the COVID-19 pandemic but eventually concluded with an emotional final performance.
“I’ve had the most wonderful career, beyond belief. 52 years of pure joy, playing music. How lucky am I to play music? But you know I wouldn’t be sitting here and talking to you if it wasn’t for you,” Sir Elton told his fans at this last concert. “You’ve bought the singles, the albums, the CDs, the cassettes, but most importantly you’ve bought the tickets to the shows.”
While Sir Elton has retired from touring, his long-term songwriting partner Bernie Taupin told fans that an “incredibly personal” album is expected to be released before Christmas, indicating that despite his health challenges, Sir Elton John’s musical journey is far from over.