During the recent premiere of his documentary “Elton John: Never Too Late” at the Toronto International Film Festival, Sir Elton John shared his thoughts [1] on former President Donald Trump and the current state of American politics.
Despite his longstanding apolitical stance regarding performances, John provided some candid insights into his views on Trump’s humor and the broader political landscape.
The pop legend, recovering from a severe eye infection that has impaired his vision, reminisced about Trump’s reference to Kim Jong Un as “Little Rocket Man,” a nod to John’s 1972 hit.
John found the nickname amusing and indicative of Trump’s fanfare towards him. “I laughed, I thought that was brilliant,” John told Variety [2]. “I just thought, ‘Good on you, Donald.’ Donald’s always been a fan of mine, and he’s been to my concerts many, many times. So, I mean, I’ve always been friendly toward him, and I thank him for his support. When he did that, I just thought it was hilarious. It made me laugh.”
Elton John on Donald Trump calling Kim Jong Un “Little Rocket Man”:
“I laughed, I thought that was brilliant… Donald’s always been a fan of mine… I’ve always been friendly toward him, and I thank him for his support. When he did that, I just thought it was hilarious.” pic.twitter.com/VEgYIlMYH2 [3]
— Pop Crave (@PopCrave) September 7, 2024 [4]
Despite these light-hearted exchanges, John clarified that his enjoyment of Trump’s humor does not equate to an endorsement of his political campaign against Kamala Harris.
He emphasized his non-partisan approach to performances, stating, “I don’t go on stage and say to people, ‘You must vote for the Republicans, you must vote for the Democrats.’ It’s none of my business how they vote. They come to see me, and I’m so grateful they have.”
NEW: Elton John says Trump’s “Rocket Man” nickname for Kim Jong Un was “brilliant” after an interviewer appeared to try to set him up with an opportunity to slam Trump.
The comments came during an interview with Variety.
Question: “You’re not a supporter of Trump. He loves your… pic.twitter.com/9usQ9bAMtq [5]
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) September 8, 2024 [6]
John also expressed concern about the current volatile state of the U.S., echoing sentiments recently shared by former Vice President Dick Cheney. “America is in a very volatile position. And it’s a country I love, and I’ve always loved, and I’m so thankful that it made me who I am,” John remarked.
He advocated for voting based on justice and individual rights, emphasizing the importance of the right to choose and the freedom to be oneself.
The singer, who moved back to the UK from Atlanta last year after retiring from touring, shared his aspirations for America’s future, hoping for a return to a more peaceful and loving society. “I just hope that people make the right decision to see what the future is going to be. Is it going to be fire and brimstone … or are we going to have a much calmer, a much safer place? People can vote for who they like, but as far as I’m concerned, I love love. And I’m a loving person, and I want that to come back to America. I feel it’s been lost in the last 12 years,” John added.
His comments at the film festival underscore a deep affection for America, even as he navigates the complexities of its political discourse, always aiming to keep his musical legacy distinct from the partisan fray.