Elton John Marks 35 Years of Sobriety: ‘Grateful for All the Love’


Elton John Marks 35 Years of Sobriety: ‘Grateful for All the Love’

Sir Elton John has reached an incredible milestone, 35 years of sobriety, and has shared his gratitude with fans around the world.

The multi-award-winning singer, 77, posted a heartfelt message on social media alongside a picture of handmade cards from his sons Elijah and Zachary, as well as a beautiful bouquet of flowers. “Grateful for all the love on my sobriety birthday,” he wrote, accompanied by a red heart emoji.

The achievement marks more than three decades since the music icon turned his life around, having struggled for years with addiction to alcohol, cannabis, and cocaine. In 1990, Elton made the life-changing decision to take a year off from his career to focus entirely on his recovery, a choice that would shape the rest of his life.

Credit: instagram.com/eltonjohn

As portrayed in the hit 2019 biopic Rocketman, the star’s substance abuse had spiralled out of control in the late ‘70s and ‘80s. Elton himself has spoken candidly about the chaos and danger of that period, calling it “a waste of such a big part of my life.” His drug use often led to erratic behaviour, including famously hijacking a Rolling Stones concert while high and once mistaking Bob Dylan for his gardener.

In his memoir Me, Elton opened up further about his darkest moments, saying:

“I was completely out of control. I had everything in the world, success, fame, money, but none of it mattered because I was lost.”

The turning point came when friends and loved ones rallied around him, urging him to seek help. Elton entered recovery and began attending regular Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) meetings. Even during his hectic touring schedules, he made sure to attend meetings wherever he was in the world.

Over the years, the singer has remained committed to his sobriety, using his platform to speak openly about addiction and mental health. His honesty has inspired countless fans who have faced similar struggles.

Ahead of last year’s 34th sobriety anniversary, Elton shared:

“My life has never been better. I wake up every day grateful for the second chance I was given.”

This year’s milestone serves as a reminder of just how far he has come. Fans and fellow celebrities have flooded social media with messages of love and congratulations. Many have praised him not only for his music but for his resilience and willingness to share his personal battles publicly.

Sir Elton John’s journey stands as a beacon of hope, proof that recovery is possible, no matter how dark the road may seem. With his 35th sobriety “birthday” now behind him, he continues to inspire, both as a musical icon and as someone who chose life, health, and happiness over addiction.

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