• Posted December 3, 2024

Elton John Says He Has Lost His Sight

Pop music legend Elton John says that he can no longer see following an eye infection he battled last summer.

The prolific singer-songwriter made the announcement Sunday at a charity gala performance of "The Devil Wears Prada: The Musical," a theater production he scored.

"I haven't been able to come to many of the previews, because as you know, I've lost my eyesight, so it's hard for me to see it, but I love to hear it -- and boy, it sounded good tonight," the artist said while speaking onstage, according to a video posted by Storyful.

In November, John told "Good Morning America" co-anchor Robin Roberts about his struggles with his vision."I unfortunately lost my eyesight in my right eye in July, because I had an infection in the south of France, and it's been four months now since I haven't been able to see," he said at the time, adding that "my left eye is not the greatest."

"There's hope and encouragement that it will be OK, but I'm kind of stuck at the moment," he told Roberts. "I can do something like this, but going into the studio and recording, I don't know."

John said he is trying whatever he can to improve his vision, but he still can't see, watch or read anything.

He added that despite his condition, he feels "lucky," "grateful" and "proud" at how he has handled the situation.

John's vision loss hasn't slowed him down: He is currently involved in several ongoing projects, including the upcoming documentary "Elton John: Never Too Late," which follows the musician as he looks back on his life and includes footage from his final North American concert from his Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour.

More information

The National Library of Medicine has more on vision loss.