At 77, Sir Elton John has not only cemented his legacy as one of the greatest musicians of all time, but he’s also a survivor who has faced numerous health challenges throughout his career. The legendary “Rocket Man” singer recently opened up about the extensive surgeries he has undergone over the years, revealing the organs he has had removed. In his own words, “there’s not much of me left,” but his resilience and spirit have kept him going.
Elton John’s Candid Health Revelation
Elton John attended the premiere of his new documentary, Elton John: Never Too Late, at the New York Film Festival on October 1, 2024. Directed by his husband, David Furnish, and JR Cutler, the documentary provides an intimate look at the music icon’s life, featuring never-before-seen concert footage, personal diary entries, and moments with his family.
After the premiere, Elton John addressed the audience with a heartfelt speech about his health struggles. He joked about the toll multiple surgeries have taken on his body, stating, “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.”
A History of Surgeries and Organ Removal
Elton John’s journey with health issues has been long and complex. Over the years, the Grammy-winning artist has had several surgeries and organ removals due to various medical conditions. Here’s a breakdown of the surgeries and health problems he has faced:
- Tonsils and Adenoids: Like many people, Elton John had his tonsils and adenoids removed, likely at a younger age. This common surgery is performed to resolve recurring infections and breathing problems.
- Appendix: In 2013, Elton John was hospitalized due to an abscess on his appendix, which required surgery. He had to cancel several tour dates while recovering from the procedure. The removal of his appendix marked a critical turning point in his health journey.
- Prostate: Perhaps one of the most significant surgeries Elton has undergone was the removal of his prostate. In 2017, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer and chose to undergo surgery rather than radiation therapy. The surgery was successful, but the recovery was difficult, with complications that left him bedridden for weeks.
- Right Hip Replacement: In 2021, Elton John revealed that he had undergone surgery to replace his right hip after suffering from pain that affected his ability to perform. The procedure required him to take time off from his Farewell Yellow Brick Road world tour, which was already delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Knee Replacements: In addition to his hip surgery, Elton has also had both of his knees replaced. This was another major surgery that left him unable to attend the 2022 Emmy Awards in person, where he won the award for Outstanding Variety Special (Live).
The Ongoing Battle with Health Problems
While Elton John’s surgeries have helped him overcome some of his health issues, his journey is far from over. Just last month, he shared with his fans that he had been dealing with a severe eye infection that impaired his vision in one eye. He revealed on Instagram, “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.”
The eye infection has slowed him down, but he remains optimistic about his recovery, crediting his medical team and family for their unwavering support. Despite these challenges, Elton has continued to stay positive and focus on his healing process, even as he navigates life with limited vision.
The Impact of a Pacemaker and Other Health Issues
Elton John’s health problems are not limited to organ removal and surgery. In 1999, he had a pacemaker implanted after it was discovered that he had an irregular heartbeat. This heart condition, known as arrhythmia, posed a significant risk to his health, but the pacemaker has allowed him to manage the issue and continue performing.
Throughout his life, Elton has also battled several infections. In 2009, he was hospitalized for influenza and a bacterial infection, which forced him to cancel concerts. These recurring health challenges have shown that even as one of the most successful musicians in history, Elton John is not immune to the struggles of maintaining his health.
A Life of Resilience and Recovery
Through it all, Elton John has faced his health challenges with remarkable strength and resilience. Despite undergoing numerous surgeries and dealing with life-threatening conditions, he continues to find joy in his music, his family, and his fans.
In his speech after the documentary premiere, Elton thanked his husband, David Furnish, and their two sons, Zachary and Elijah, for being his source of strength during the toughest times. “I want to thank David and Zachary and Elijah for making me the happiest man in the world,” he said, highlighting the love and support that has kept him going.
Elton’s Legacy: More Than Just a Music Icon
Elton John’s impact on the world goes beyond his legendary music career. His openness about his health battles has made him an inspiring figure for many, showing that even in the face of great adversity, it is possible to continue pursuing your passions.
From his decision to go public with his prostate cancer diagnosis to sharing his struggles with vision impairment, Elton’s transparency has helped remove the stigma around health issues, particularly for men. His story reminds us all that health is a precious commodity, and even global superstars like Elton John must fight to protect it.
Conclusion: A Remarkable Journey Through Music and Health
Elton John’s recent revelations about the organs he’s had removed shed light on the immense challenges he’s faced throughout his life. From tonsils to appendixes, knees to hips, his body has endured countless surgeries. Yet, his indomitable spirit and passion for life keep him going strong.
Despite his health struggles, Elton continues to inspire millions with his resilience, his music, and his unwavering optimism. Whether it’s overcoming cancer, recovering from eye infections, or celebrating life with his family, Elton John remains a shining example of what it means to live fully, no matter the obstacles.
