Elton John jokes about eye problems at 2025 Golden Globes

Elton John he may have vision problems, but he still has jokes.

“I don’t know if you know this, but there have been many stories told about my recursive vision,” said John, 77. Golden Globes 2025 stage on Sunday, January 5. “I just wanted to reassure everyone that it’s not as bad as it looks.

The legendary singer took the stage next door Brandi Carlilee to present the award for Best Original Score, Film. (Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross took home the win challengers.)

“I am so glad to be here with my host, Rihanna‘ John continued, pointing to Carlile, 43, who held back a laugh before presenting the award.

Related: Elton John’s biggest health ups and downs over the years

Elton John has battled several health issues throughout his legendary music career, from battles with addiction to a secret battle with cancer. “I’m a survivor. I’ve been through a lot,” he told Variety in a March 2019 interview. “Life is full of pitfalls, even when you’re sober.” I can deal with them now because I am (…)

John first revealed his health problem in a statement on Instagram in September 2024. He offered more details during an interview with November 2024 Good morning America‘with Robin Robertsexplaining that he had lost sight in his right eye after an illness.

“I had an infection in the south of France. I haven’t been able to see for four months and my left eye is not the best,” the musician said, adding that there is “hope and encouragement” that he will eventually see.

“I’m kind of stuck in the moment,” John explained, admitting that he wasn’t sure if it was possible to record music at the moment.

Standing next to Brandi Carlile, Elton John reassured everyone that his eye health problems are not as bad as everyone thinks:

“I’m so happy to be here with my co-host Rihanna.#Golden balls pic.twitter.com/o16MAflMRw

— Spencer Althouse (@SpencerAlthouse) January 6, 2025

“I can’t see the text for a start. We’re taking the initiative and trying to improve it, but that’s what we’re really focused on at the moment,” he continued. “It’s never lucky for something like this to happen. It tripped me up a bit and I couldn’t see anything. I can’t read anything, I can’t watch anything.’

John also spoke honestly about your eyesight last month when he addressed the opening crowd The Devil Wears Prada: The Musical in London. It was reported at the time that John was helped off the stage by his husband David Furnish. (John provided the music for the new stage show.)

“As some of you may know, I’ve been in trouble and now I’ve lost my sight. I didn’t see the show, but I enjoyed it,” he said on stage, according to the newspaper Daily Mail. “To my husband, who has been my rock because I haven’t been able to come to a lot of shows… it’s hard for me to see it, but I love hearing it and it sounded good tonight. Thank you for coming.”