Elton John Opens Up About 34 Years Of Sobriety And Why Asking For Help Changed Everything
Back in 1991, Elton John did something pretty bold. He sat down with TV journalist David Frost and opened up about his mental health and new sobriety, telling everyone watching that asking for help was never a “sign of weakness.” It was a significant moment.
Elton John at his home in Wentworth, Surrey, during a shoot for the cover of 'Elton John's Greatest Hits', 1974. Photo by Terry O'Neill. Do you or did you have this album? pic.twitter.com/pRLZ8jOcfC
— Classic Rock In Pics (@crockpics) August 23, 2023
Now, that key conversation is being revisited. A new David Frost Vs episode on MSNBC features Elton, 34 years sober, looking back. “This is very early in my sobriety,” Elton says in a preview. “I look at my face, and I looked so happy. I’m so different to the person I was before.” He adds that getting sober “wasn’t hard for me… It was joyous.” That newfound peace was clear even then.
Elton, then about 44, faced David Frost, an interviewer known for his tough questions. Instead of being guarded, Elton was vulnerable. “You’ve known me a long time. You’ve seen me when I’ve been happy. You’ve seen me when I’ve been troubled,” he told Frost. “You’ve seen me when I’ve been oblivious, and on another planet, probably. But it’s the first time I’ve had peace of mind. It shows, and I just know it. I feel it.”
On this day in 1990, Elton John checked into rehab in Chicago for alcoholism, cocaine addiction and bulimia. He mopped floors. His sponsor was a garbage truck driver. He’s since helped countless others with their own addiction struggles.
— Vic Vela (@VicVela1) July 30, 2023
Congrats on 33 years sober, Sir Elton. pic.twitter.com/OnjqFpFBgR
Considering the pressures of fame at the time, these words carried weight. Frost noticed the change too. “Everybody feels it,” he said. “I think you look 10 years younger. I sense you more at peace than I’ve ever seen you before too.” Elton’s simple reply, “Yeah, there’s no inward battle going on anymore,” said it all. Can you appreciate the relief in that?
Watching Elton John reflect on his younger, newly sober self today offers a striking perspective. His path involved more than stopping destructive behaviours; it was a profound internal shift. The new David Frost Vs episode explores this, with Elton commenting on his life at that crucial time. His honesty then was a support for many who felt alone in their struggles.
A core part of that 1991 interview was Elton’s straightforward view on flaws and connection. “We’re all flawed. It’s just that I realise what my flaws are now. I can do something about them,” the acclaimed LGBTQIA+ singer explained to Frost. He understood the loneliness many feel: “There are so many millions of people who have the same problems as me, and they don’t communicate, because they don’t think people want to be there for them.”
Then came his powerful message:
“If any of you are out there listening: It’s OK to ask for help. I didn’t think it was, because I thought it was a sign of weakness. In fact, it’s a very spiritual thing to do, to ask another human being to help you.” He lived it. “I’m very glad I did,” John stated. “And now, as a result, my life has changed so much.”
The episode will also explore Elton’s experience with fame, emotional burnout, and his identity. Now in his seventies and still outspoken, Elton continues to use his platform to encourage others to seek support, through both his public statements and the Elton John AIDS Foundation.
David Frost Vs airs Sunday at 9 p.m. ET on MSNBC.
