Elton John has hit out at reports he was seen looking 'frail' and offered assurances to his UK fans ahead of his show in Sunderland at the weekend.
The music icon has seen plans for his Yellow Brick Road Farewell Tour thwarted over the past few years, with the pandemic and subsequent restrictions, as well as his own injury, forcing him to postpone a whole host of dates across the globe. There was great excitement last year when it was announced that he'd be playing the Stadium of Light, with fans in the North East excited at the prospect of seeing him for one last time.
And, after a long wait, there are now just days to go before Elton, the man who's given us countless classics like Your Song, I'm Still Standing and The Bitch is Back is on the pitch at the home of Sunderland AFC, with a few tickets still available.
READ MORE: Elton John stage times for Sunderland show
Elton, 75, only appeared on screen for the Platinum Party at the Palace earlier this month, rather than appearing in person at Buckingham Palace, due to having a gig in Italy at the same time but, he has shut down rumours that he is struggling, Taking to Instagram, he wrote: "“I want to thank all my fans for reaching out to ask about my health, after the tabloids ran a silly story about my ‘looking frail’ in a wheelchair.
“The true story is that I’m in top health, loving my shows and playing and singing at my very best. I give 100% every night and never want to disappoint, especially after everyone has waited so long to get back to seeing shows. Your response to every show has been phenomenal and I’m loving every minute of it.”
Last year, Elton suffered a nasty fall which also had a knock on effect on his touring. Explaining all at the time, he said: "At the end of my summer break I fell awkwardly on a hard surface and have been in considerable pain and discomfort in my hip ever since.
“Despite intensive physio and specialist treatment, the pain has continued to get worse and is leading to increasing difficulties moving."
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