Elton John has shared a devastating update about his health, revealing that his eyesight has deteriorated so badly he can no longer sign autographs properly. The 77-year-old music icon lost vision in his right eye last year after contracting an infection while on holiday in the South of France. Now, his failing sight has made everyday tasks increasingly difficult, and he’s had to adapt—even when it comes to signing his name.
Fans who purchased the £24.99 limited edition autographed sets of his new album were informed that Elton had to “simplify” his signature due to his condition. Instead of his full name, he’s now only able to sign with a simple ‘E’ followed by a kiss, reported the Express.
It’s been a tough reality for the Tiny Dancer singer, who has been open about his struggles. Back in November, he admitted he feared his eyesight would prevent him from finishing his latest album, Who Believes In Angels? The record, a collaboration with country star Brandi Carlile, is still on track for release on April 4, but it hasn’t been an easy journey.
As if losing vision in one eye wasn’t difficult enough, Elton later revealed that his left eye isn’t much better. “The sight in my left eye is not the greatest,” he admitted, making even the simplest tasks, like reading lyrics, a challenge.
His condition has also stopped him from watching his new stage musical adaptation of The Devil Wears Prada. In an emotional interview with Good Morning America, he shared just how much his failing eyesight has impacted his life. “It kind of floored me, and I can’t see anything,” he said. “I can’t read anything, I can’t watch anything.”
For a man whose career has been built on songwriting and performing, the thought of losing his ability to record music is particularly heartbreaking. “I can do something like this [interview], but going into the studio and recording, I don’t know, because I can’t see a lyric for a start,” he explained.
Despite his struggles, Elton has remained determined to keep going, and fans are still eagerly awaiting the release of his new album. But as his health battles continue, the future of his musical career remains uncertain.
