In the often chaotic world of showbiz, it’s rare to find someone who consistently shows up for others.
But Elton John, with more than 60 years in the spotlight, has done just that — not just with his music, but with his heart.
He’s the guy people call when things go sideways, and the one who checks in even when everything seems fine.
At 78, Elton’s list of famous friends is long, and his impact on their lives goes far beyond glamorous parties and awards shows.
Elton’s Loyal Bond with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle
Elton has always been close to Prince Harry — a friendship that started with his late mother, Princess Diana.
Since Harry married Meghan Markle in 2018, Elton has become a steady presence in their lives.
He reportedly talks to them daily and has shown strong public support for the couple, especially when they faced backlash for using his private jet while promoting environmental causes.
When the press criticized their trip to Elton’s villa in Nice, he didn’t stay silent.
He posted on social media, defending them and pointing out that he had offset the carbon emissions.
He also reminded everyone of his deep connection to Diana and his sense of responsibility toward her son and his family.
Harry and Meghan clearly appreciated his loyalty.
In 2023, they recorded a touching message for Elton’s farewell concert, thanking him for his support and for being a friend not just to them, but to their children as well.
How Ed Sheeran Became One of Elton’s Closest Friends
Ed Sheeran may be one of the biggest names in music today, but he still gets regular FaceTime calls from Elton John — every single day, actually.
Their friendship began early in Ed’s career, when Elton called to congratulate him out of the blue. That moment sparked a lasting bond.
Over time, their connection grew stronger. Elton presented Ed with the Global Success award at the BRITs, and the two collaborated on a holiday song.
When Ed lost his friend and producer Michael Gudinski, he leaned on Elton more than ever.
Since then, Elton has made it a point to check in with Ed daily — sometimes for half an hour, sometimes for just two minutes — showing the kind of friendship that goes beyond industry pleasantries.
Playing Peacemaker for Brooklyn Beckham and Nicola Peltz
Even as he nears 80, Elton John hasn’t stepped away from his role as the calm voice of reason — or what one source jokingly called “the showbiz equivalent of Switzerland.”
That’s exactly how he handled a recent family feud involving his godson Brooklyn Beckham and his parents, David and Victoria.
Sources say Elton hosted Brooklyn and his wife Nicola Peltz for lunch at a beach club in St. Tropez and gently brought up the family tension.
He didn’t take sides — he just reminded everyone that life is short and encouraged peace.
His close bond with Brooklyn and warm rapport with Nicola make him the ideal confidant, and he takes his godfather role seriously, describing himself as their “spiritual adviser.”
Regret Over George Michael’s Struggles
Not all of Elton’s friendships have ended in happy resolutions.
His relationship with the late George Michael was complicated by George’s battle with addiction.
Elton has spoken candidly about trying to help, only to be pushed away.
Despite public disagreements and misunderstandings, the two eventually reconciled.
One of their most iconic moments was their 1991 duet of “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down On Me.”
Years later, they posed together at an AIDS Foundation event, a quiet sign that the bond had endured — even if it had been tested.
Anastacia’s Love for Her “Fairy Godfather”
Pop star Anastacia has always held a special place in her heart for Elton, affectionately calling him her “fairy godfather.”
The two performed together at Madison Square Garden, and she’s spoken fondly of his support over the years.
After beating breast cancer and undergoing a double mastectomy, she joked about looking forward to showing Elton her “new boobs,” just like she had before.
Their friendship may be laced with humor, but it’s grounded in real love and admiration.
The Celebrity Support System for Those Battling Addiction
Elton doesn’t just support his friends when things are going well — he steps up when they’re at their lowest.
Having been sober for over 30 years, he often offers support to other celebrities dealing with addiction.
In fact, he once called himself a “celebrity helper.”
He’s helped artists like Rufus Wainwright get into rehab, and even acted as Eminem’s Alcoholics Anonymous sponsor.
It’s become something of an inside joke that Elton always “springs into action” when a fellow star needs help, but he doesn’t mind.
To him, it’s about paying forward the kindness that helped him turn his own life around.
On “The Jonathan Ross Show,” Elton shared that he often makes surprise calls to check in on people — young or old — who are struggling.
His message is simple: you’re not alone, and someone cares.
When Help Isn’t Always Welcome
But even with the best intentions, not everyone is ready to accept help.
Elton once reached out at the request of Dionne Warwick to help Whitney Houston, but he never heard back.
He also raised concerns with Billy Joel over his drinking, but the response wasn’t exactly warm.
These moments haven’t deterred him.
Elton knows firsthand that recovery has to start from within.
And while not every story ends with healing, his willingness to show up again and again says everything about the kind of man he is.
What’s Next?
With six decades of music, activism, and deeply personal relationships behind him, Elton John continues to be a rock — not just on stage, but in the lives of those he cares about.
As he steps away from touring, one thing is clear: the Rocket Man’s greatest legacy might not just be his songs, but the love and loyalty he shows behind the scenes.