Elton John recently revealed he has lost vision in his right eye due to a severe infection. He shared the news during the opening night of “The Devil Wears Prada.” John said he has been unable to see out of his right eye for four months, with his left eye also impaired, making work increasingly difficult. John said, “I haven’t been able to come to many of the previews because, as you know, I have lost my eyesight.”
In this gallery, we look into John’s impairment, as well as his career.
John is well-known for his flamboyant stage presence, and has remained a prominent figure in pop and rock music since the 1970s. He has sold over 300 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling music artists of all time.
John’s 1997 single “Candle in the Wind 1997,” a tribute to Princess Diana, is one of the best-selling singles in history. He has won numerous awards, including five Grammy Awards, an Academy Award, and a Tony Award.
John was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1998 for his contributions to music and charity. He is also known for his activism, particularly in raising awareness and funds for HIV/AIDS through the Elton John AIDS Foundation.
John collaborated with lyricist Bernie Taupin for most of his career, creating iconic hits like “Rocket Man,” “Your Song,” and “Tiny Dancer.” He announced his retirement from touring in 2018, embarking on a farewell tour called “Farewell Yellow Brick Road.”
John previously disclosed his eye infection online, explaining it left him with limited vision. He said recovery has been slow but remains optimistic about progress.
John 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.”
John added, “I am healing, but it’s an extremely slow process and it will take some time before sight returns to the impacted eye.”
John concluded, “I have been quietly spending the summer recuperating at home, and am feeling positive about the progress I have made in my healing and recovery thus far.”