When life throws curveballs, sometimes it's the people around us who help us stay strong. For music legend Elton John, that person is his long-time friend and fellow artist, Joni Mitchell. In recent years, Elton has faced a series of health challenges that have tested his resilience. But through it all, Joni has been a rock for him, offering unwavering support and encouragement.
A Friendship Built on Mutual Admiration
Elton and Joni's friendship runs deep. According to an insider speaking exclusively to Closer, Elton looks up to Joni for her incredible courage in the face of adversity. "They’re both wobbly and can barely walk, but Elton admires Joni’s bravery," the source reveals. "If she can still sing and carry on with life despite her struggles, so can he. She has an indomitable, unbreakable spirit that Elton wishes he had." It's a testament to the power of friendship and the inspiration that can come from someone who refuses to give up, no matter the obstacles.
Elton's Recent Appearance at the New York Film Festival
Just this month, the iconic "Rocket Man" singer, now 77, made an appearance at the New York Film Festival premiere of Elton John: Never Too Late alongside his husband, David Furnish. During the event, Elton sat in a chair on the red carpet to pose for photos with David, who is 62, and the documentary’s co-director, R.J. Cutler. In a candid moment, Elton opened up about his health battles, sharing details that many fans might not know. "To be honest with you, there’s not much of me left," he admitted in a speech. "I don’t have tonsils, adenoids, or an appendix. I don’t have a prostate. I don’t have a right hip or a left knee or a right knee. In fact, the only thing left to me is my left hip." Despite this, Elton's spirit remains unshaken. "But I’m still here," he said. "And I can’t thank you [enough], you’re the people that made me."
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Joni Mitchell: Elton's Secret Savior
Joni Mitchell, who herself suffered a near-fatal brain aneurysm in 2015, leaving her unable to sing, talk, play guitar, or walk, has become Elton’s "secret savior these past few months," according to the Closer source. "It’s no secret he’s been down on his luck and struck by one health issue after another, but he looks up to someone like Joni, and she’s given him more will to live," the insider explains. "He realizes there is a way back, and the best of what they’ve got has yet to come. Joni’s positivity has been infectious." This bond between two legendary artists is a reminder that even in the darkest times, there's always hope.
Recently, Joni invited Elton to join her on stage at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles for her Joni Mitchell and the Joni Jam concert. Together, they performed Elton’s classic hit, "I’m Still Standing," showcasing their enduring friendship and mutual respect. Elton also shared backstage footage of an acoustic version of the song, calling it the "ultimate backstage Joni Jam." The weekend of shows featured an all-star lineup, including Meryl Streep, Annie Lennox, Marcus Mumford, Brandi Carlile, Blake Mills, Jacob Collier, Robin Pecknold, Lucius, Allison Russell, Jon Batiste, and more.
Elton's Determination to Stay Strong
Despite his health challenges, Elton remains determined to maintain his larger-than-life image. A separate source told Closer in September that Elton "refuses to be seen as weak." "He’s so determined to maintain his larger-than-life image—but the truth is he can hardly move without help!" the insider revealed. During one red carpet appearance, Elton arrived in a custom purple golf cart, a move the source claimed was to hide his increasing reliance on a wheelchair. "Elton’s focus now is all about cementing his legacy," the source added. "He wants to control the narrative of his life as an artist, husband, and father—before someone else does it for him!"
