Elton John Braves Eye Challenges to Attend 'The Devil Wears Prada' Musical Opening in London
December 2, 2024
Elton John attended the opening night of 'The Devil Wears Prada' musical in London on December 1, 2024, despite facing significant eyesight challenges due to an infection.
In light of his health issues, John has made lifestyle changes, including dietary adjustments due to Type 2 diabetes, and humorously noted cravings for sweets he can no longer enjoy.
John composed the score for the musical, which is based on the popular 2006 film about a young journalist in the fashion industry.
Despite his health struggles, John described himself as 'the luckiest man in the world' and expressed pride in his upcoming documentary 'Elton John: Never Too Late,' set to premiere on Disney+ on December 13, 2024.
The documentary chronicles John's life and career, including his final North American concert at Dodger Stadium in November 2022, marking his retirement from live touring.
At the gala, John revealed that his health has not improved, reflecting on his ongoing struggles and uncertainty about his future.
During the event, he expressed gratitude towards his medical team and family for their support, acknowledging that his recovery has been an 'extremely slow process.'
The gala performance served as a fundraiser for the Elton John AIDS Foundation and attracted numerous celebrities, including designer Donatella Versace and former Vogue editor Anna Wintour, who found the musical 'entertaining.'
Earlier in 2024, John achieved EGOT status by winning an Emmy for outstanding variety special for his show 'Elton John Live: Farewell From Dodger Stadium,' adding to his impressive accolades.
Having completed a farewell tour from 2018 to 2023, John has since focused on family life while continuing to engage in creative projects.
He humorously shared that if he could choose a last meal, it would consist solely of desserts, highlighting the impact of his dietary restrictions.
John has expressed enjoyment in the collaborative process of writing music for musicals, adapting to life after retiring from touring.
Summary based on 35 sources
Get a daily email with more Theatre stories
Sources

The Guardian • Dec 2, 2024
Elton John reveals he is unable to watch his own musical after losing eyesight
Business Insider • Dec 2, 2024
Elton John said he lost his eyesight and couldn't see the premiere of his new musical
CBS Philadelphia • Dec 2, 2024
Elton John says he lost his eyesight following severe eye infection
Los Angeles Times • Dec 2, 2024
Elton John says his vision has deteriorated since eye infection - Los Angeles Times