David Furnish, the Toronto producer and co-director of the new Elton John documentary, "Elton John: Never Too Late," made a surprising discovery about his husband during production: Elton John had a longing to be a father that he had kept hidden for years. This revelation came to light while Furnish was sifting through archives and stumbled upon a candid interview recorded almost 50 years ago.
In this vintage interview, the 77-year-old "Benny and the Jets" singer candidly shared his thoughts about becoming a father one day. Furnish shared that John initially resisted having children when they first began their relationship in the early 1990s, stating that his life was too busy and he didn't think he would be a good parent. But the unearthed interview painted a different picture, showcasing John's secret yearning for a family.
"And there he was in 1976 talking about what’s ultimately our life today," Furnish said at the Toronto International Film Festival. "I came from a very happy family, so I always wanted to have kids, but Elton was like, ‘No, my life’s too big, I don’t think I would be a good parent, I’m too self-centred.’ It was very much a non-discussion."
John's perspective eventually shifted, and he and Furnish now have two sons, Zachary Furnish-John (13) and Elijah Furnish-John (11), whom they welcomed through surrogacy. This transformation in John's outlook is evident in the documentary, which explores his journey from the intoxicating highs of early stardom to the quiet joys of family life.
From Glam Rock to Family Man
The documentary "Elton John: Never Too Late" takes viewers on a captivating journey through John's illustrious career, highlighting the formative years when he released 11 albums in a span of just over five years after collaborating with his songwriting partner Bernie Taupin. The film also delves into the personal struggles John faced, including the challenges of his childhood and the excesses of fame that led to darker periods in his life.
The documentary draws heavily on previously unseen footage, sourced from two warehouses in London filled with stacks of John's archival materials. The filmmakers, co-director R.J. Cutler and Furnish, have meticulously compiled these materials, offering viewers an intimate glimpse into John's life and career.
A Journey of Reflection
The film's premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival was a moving experience for John, as he was visibly emotional while watching his past unfold on the big screen. Cutler noted John's emotional state during the premiere, saying, "He was shaking. The connection that he’s experiencing through the film … is pretty powerful."
John's career has taken a new turn since he retired from touring last year after an extensive farewell tour. Furnish has observed that his husband is viewing his career differently now, no longer dwelling on past successes or avoiding compliments.
"Because he's not nostalgic; he’s also not very good at taking a compliment. There’s never any laurel resting at all," Furnish explained. "(Now) he’s looking at that early performance footage — out on the road doing gig after gig — and he’s saying, ‘God, I was bloody good, wasn’t I?’ He’s actually allowing himself to drink it in."
A New Chapter in Toronto
John and Furnish, who have spent much of their time in the United States and overseas, are planning to move to Toronto next year. They recently purchased an apartment in the city and are eager to settle down there. Furnish expressed their excitement for the move, stating that their sons are particularly enthusiastic about Canada. "We can’t wait, our sons can’t wait — they love Canada," Furnish shared. "It’ll be nice to have a base here."
The documentary "Elton John: Never Too Late" offers a nuanced look at the music icon's life, revealing hidden facets of his journey and showcasing the powerful transformation he underwent from a global superstar to a devoted family man. The film will debut on Disney+ on December 13, allowing audiences worldwide to experience John's compelling story.
A Deep Dive Into the ’70s Heyday
The documentary does more than just chronicle Elton John's career. It dives into the heart of his musical genius, the era that defined him: the 1970s. This period saw Elton John at the peak of his powers, with his music permeating pop culture and his flamboyant persona captivating audiences worldwide.
The film masterfully uses archival footage, photos, and even recordings of interviews from the era to transport viewers back to a time when Elton John was a force to be reckoned with. These glimpses into the past reveal the raw energy and creativity that fuelled John's success and give us a rare insight into the mind of a musical icon.
An Enduring Legacy
Elton John's journey is not just about the music, it's about the human being behind it all. The documentary, in its exploration of his past and present, unveils a complex and multifaceted personality, highlighting the highs and lows of his life. It reveals the vulnerabilities of a man who, despite achieving immense success, was grappling with inner demons and the pressures of fame.
Through it all, Elton John remained a musical force. His music, imbued with his personal experiences and emotions, continues to resonate with generations of fans. The documentary, by showcasing the man behind the music, enriches our understanding of Elton John's legacy, reminding us that even the greatest of stars are human beings with their own vulnerabilities and aspirations.
