Sir Elton John says he is staying strong and hopeful after losing vision in his right eye last year.
In an interview with Variety published on Tuesday (Nov 25), the 78-year-old music icon revealed that an eye infection he developed while vacationing in France in mid-2024 severely impacted both eyes.
“It’s been devastating,” he said. “I lost my right eye and my left eye’s not so good. For the past 15 months, I haven’t been able to see anything, watch anything, or read anything.”
Despite the challenge, Elton remains optimistic:
“I’ve had the most incredible life, and there is hope. I just have to be patient that someday science will help me. You mustn’t give up hope—be stoic, be strong, and keep pushing forward.”
He acknowledged feeling down at times but credited his husband David Furnish, sons Zachary (14) and Elijah (12), and close musician friends for their support.
“Paul McCartney FaceTimes me to check in. Pete Townshend, Mick Jagger, even Keith Richards sending an email saying ‘Hello, darling, how you doing?’ — it makes my day,” he shared.
In an earlier interview, Elton admitted his condition has affected simple joys like watching his sons play sports but said he remains grateful:
“I’m lucky to have the life I have. I still have my wonderful family, and I can still see something.”

