Elton John Shares Childhood Trauma in Disney+ Documentary: Never Too Late

Elton John, the iconic British musical genius, has captivated audiences worldwide with his extraordinary voice and songwriting skills. Today, a new and deeply personal chapter unfolds as his documentary, Elton John: Never Too Late, premieres on Disney+ (Friday 13 December). In this raw and honest film, Elton bravely shares the harsh realities of his childhood, shedding light on the tumultuous relationship he had with his parents.

Recalling the distressing memories, Elton reveals, “My father and my mother, I don’t know if they were ever in love with one another, there were lots of arguments, both of them I was frightened of, they were abusive, they were violent, they were physically violent.” The pain of his past is evident as he recounts instances of abuse, like his mother beating him with a wire brush at just one year old.

Despite the difficulties he faced, Elton found refuge in his vivid imagination. “I spent a lot of time in fantasy land while my parents were arguing, I cherished the things that I had,” he shares. Raised by his maternal grandparents in a council property in Pinner, Middlesex, after his parents’ divorce, Elton discovered a sense of peace with his stepfather, affectionately known as “Derf”.

Tragedy struck later in life with the passing of Elton’s parents. His father, Stanley, died in 1991 from cardiovascular disease, while his mother, Sheila, passed away in 2017 at the age of 92. The reconciliation between Elton and his mother shortly before her death marked a poignant moment in their complex relationship.

Elton John: Never Too Late is a poignant exploration of Elton’s journey from a fearful child to a celebrated artist. Now streaming on Disney+, this documentary offers a glimpse into the heart and soul of a music legend.