Elton John, a name synonymous with musical genius and flamboyant performances, has been an enduring figure in the entertainment industry for over five decades. For many, questions about his personal life, particularly his sexuality, have lingered alongside his artistic achievements. This article delves into the truth about Elton John’s sexual orientation, exploring his journey of self-discovery and his powerful message to the LGBTQ+ community.
In a revealing interview with Variety at the Cannes Film Festival, just before the premiere of his biopic Rocketman, Elton John addressed his identity with characteristic candor. When asked about advice for young LGBTQ+ individuals struggling with their sexuality or gender identity, his message was clear and resonant: “Just be yourself.” This simple yet profound statement encapsulates his own journey toward accepting and embracing his identity as a gay man.
Elton John’s Candid Revelation About His Sexuality
Elton John’s path to openly identifying as gay was a gradual evolution. In 1976, at the age of 29 and already a global superstar, he publicly stated in an interview with Rolling Stone that he was bisexual. This was a significant step at a time when LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream media was scarce. However, years later, in 1992, during another Rolling Stone interview, he clarified his stance, stating he was “quite comfortable being gay.”
Expanding on this, in his recent Variety interview, John shared that he realized he was gay at the age of 23. “I got off to a very slow start,” he chuckled, using the analogy of “the tortoise and the hare” to describe his journey of self-discovery. This honesty about his timeline provides a relatable narrative for many who experience a similar process of understanding and accepting their sexual orientation.
Elton John illustration for Variety, showcasing his iconic glasses and piano keys.
“Rocketman” and Facing His Truth
The biopic Rocketman offers a cinematic portrayal of Elton John’s life, including the complexities of his journey with sexuality and self-acceptance. The film doesn’t shy away from depicting the emotional turmoil and personal struggles he faced while coming to terms with his identity. As Variety notes, making up for lost time in his personal life contributed to a period of near-fatal drug addiction, highlighting the challenges he navigated before achieving sobriety 28 years ago.
A Career Forged in Acceptance
Despite the societal challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, Elton John acknowledges a degree of “privilege” in finding acceptance within the entertainment industry. He recognizes that his profession provided a more tolerant environment than many others experience. However, he remains acutely aware of the struggles faced by LGBTQ+ youth who lack such privilege, particularly those from unsupportive families or communities where religion is used to condemn LGBTQ+ identities.
His remarkable 50-year career is a testament to his talent and resilience. Accolades like an Oscar, a Tony Award, and multiple Grammy Awards underscore his artistic impact. Even amidst his ongoing Farewell Yellow Brick Road retirement tour, his influence and relevance remain undiminished. His knighthood by Queen Elizabeth in 1998 further solidified his status as a national and global icon.
LGBTQ+ Activism and the Elton John AIDS Foundation
Elton John’s commitment extends beyond his music to significant activism, particularly in the fight against HIV and AIDS. His early involvement includes the 1986 charity single “That’s What Friends Are For,” a collaboration with Dionne Warwick, Gladys Knight, and Stevie Wonder, with proceeds benefiting the American Foundation for AIDS Research.
Since 1993, his annual Oscar viewing party has become a legendary fundraising event, amassing over $200 million for the Elton John AIDS Foundation. This dedication showcases his long-term commitment to supporting those affected by the epidemic and advocating for greater awareness and research.
Family Life and Modern Acceptance
Elton John’s personal life also reflects a journey toward love and acceptance. He and his husband, David Furnish, a producer on Rocketman, have been partners for over 26 years. They were pioneers in the UK, among the first to enter into a civil partnership when the law was enacted. Later, they formalized their commitment by marrying in 2014, shortly after same-sex marriage became legal in the UK. They are parents to two sons, Zachary and Elijah, demonstrating the evolution of societal acceptance and the expansion of family structures.
This contrasts sharply with Elton John’s own childhood, marked by his father’s absence and an emotionally distant mother who, as depicted in Rocketman, told him he would never be truly loved because of his sexuality. His current family life stands as a powerful counter-narrative, illustrating the possibility of love, family, and acceptance for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Elton John’s Message to Young LGBTQ+ People
In his message to young LGBTQ+ individuals, Elton John emphasizes self-acceptance and resilience. “It’s wonderful to be gay. I love being gay. I really do,” he affirms. He believes his sexual orientation has been integral to his life and achievements, stating, “I think I wouldn’t have had the life I’ve had if I hadn’t been gay. And I’m very proud of that. I’m very proud that I can appreciate that.”
His advice is direct and empowering: “If you’re unhappy at home, leave. Don’t let anybody torture you for being gay or for your sexuality.” He encourages young people to embrace their identities and seek environments where they can thrive.
Promotional image for Variety's Power of Pride feature.
Elton John’s role as an “elder statesman” of the LGBTQ+ community is undeniable. He embodies a figure of wisdom and experience, advocating for pride and acceptance. He passionately denounces those in positions of power who “attack gay people, transgender people,” especially those who “claim to be close to God,” arguing that such actions are fundamentally contrary to true spiritual values. His message is one of inclusivity, celebrating the diversity of human identities – “straight people, gay people, transgender people” – as equally valued “children of God.”
In conclusion, Elton John’s journey is not just about his musical legacy but also about his courageous path to self-acceptance and his unwavering advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community. Yes, Elton John is gay, and he embraces his identity with pride, using his platform to inspire and uplift countless others. His story serves as a powerful reminder to be true to oneself, to find strength in identity, and to advocate for a more inclusive and accepting world.
