Elton John is a musical legend, with a career that spans decades and countless hit songs. Along with his musical talent, he’s also known for his flamboyant fashion sense and larger-than-life personality.
However, throughout his career, rumors have persisted about his sexual orientation. Is Elton John gay? Let’s take a closer look.
Early Life and Career
Elton John, born Reginald Dwight, grew up in a working-class family in England. He showed a talent for music early on, and went on to attend the Royal Academy of Music.
However, it wasn’t until he teamed up with lyricist Bernie Taupin that he achieved commercial success. Their partnership led to hit songs like “Your Song,” “Rocket Man,” and “Tiny Dancer.”
Despite his success, Elton struggled with personal issues. He was married briefly in the early 1980s, but the marriage quickly fell apart. He also battled addiction problems, which he later admitted were related to his struggles with his sexuality.
Is Elton John Gay? Coming Out
Elton John publicly came out as gay in 1988, in an interview with Rolling Stone magazine. At the time, it was a controversial move, and he faced backlash from some quarters. However, he has since become a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.
Elton John’s Personal Life
Elton John has been in a relationship with David Furnish since the early 1990s. The two had a civil partnership ceremony in 2005, and then legally married in 2014 when same-sex marriage became legal in England. They have two children together, and are known for their philanthropic work.
Elton John’s Influence on LGBTQ+ Representation
Elton John’s decision to come out publicly had a significant impact on the world of music and on LGBTQ+ representation in general. He paved the way for other LGBTQ+ performers to be open about their sexuality, and helped to break down stigma and discrimination.
In 2019, the biopic Rocketman was released, which depicted his life and career, including his struggles with his sexuality.
Elton John Encourages Struggling LGBTQ Youth to Embrace Their Identity: “Be Proud of Who You Are”
Elton John, the iconic singer-songwriter, has never hesitated to express his thoughts, especially on matters concerning the LGBTQ community. In an exclusive interview with Variety at the Cannes Film Festival, where his biopic “Rocketman” premiered, John spoke candidly about being a gay entertainer.
“Just be yourself,” he advised, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and resilience. He acknowledged his fortunate position in an industry accepting of gay individuals, contrasting it with the hardships faced by less privileged LGBTQ youth, often struggling with familial and religious acceptance.
Elton John became a pioneer for the LGBTQ community in the entertainment industry. He publicly came out as bisexual in a 1976 Rolling Stone interview and later, in 1992, stated he was comfortable being gay. Now 72, John reflects on realizing his sexuality at 23, humorously noting a delayed but eventual embrace of his true self.
His life journey, as depicted in “Rocketman,” includes overcoming a severe drug addiction, leading to a transformational path of sobriety. Throughout his illustrious 50-year music career, John has garnered an Oscar, a Tony, and multiple Grammys. He is currently on his retirement tour, “Farewell Yellow Brick Road,” set to conclude in late 2020.
Apart from his musical achievements, Elton John is a dedicated activist, especially in HIV/AIDS awareness and support. He has raised substantial funds for the cause through his annual Oscar viewing party and other initiatives.
On the personal front, John and his husband, David Furnish, have been together for over 26 years, marrying in 2014 after same-sex marriage legalization in the U.K. They have two sons, Zachary and Elijah. John’s own challenging childhood, marked by an absent father and a distant mother, starkly contrasts his current life, filled with love and acceptance.
John, who will release his authorized memoir “Me” in October, passionately expresses his pride in being gay, advocating for young LGBTQ individuals to embrace their identity and stand against any form of discrimination. As a respected elder statesman of the LGBTQ community, he encapsulates wisdom and encouragement, urging young people to be proud and reminding them that everyone is equal, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Conclusion
While rumors about Elton John’s sexual orientation may have persisted throughout his career, he has been open about being gay since 1988. He has been in a long-term relationship with David Furnish, and the two are known for their advocacy work for LGBTQ+ rights. Elton John’s decision to come out publicly had a significant impact on representation in music and beyond, and his legacy in this area will be felt for years to come.
