Kaylah Walton
Sir Elton John has turned to new revenue streams after concluding his live touring. At 77 years old and dealing with health challenges, along with two notable musical setbacks, he’s now focused on selling holiday-themed products through his online store. The merchandise includes items priced from $70 for Christmas sweaters down to $25 for festive baubles, with hopes of benefiting from the seasonal shopping trends.
The shop features various products such as $18 socks, $16 playing cards, and even a $417 special edition teddy bear inspired by his famous 1973 album, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road. This collectible Steiff bear comes with miniature sunglasses and jacket details reminiscent of Elton’s iconic style.
The priciest item listed is a $158 Elton John action figure, alongside additional products like $19 mugs and $70 joggers. While the shop seeks to highlight Elton’s bold fashion, some critics have labeled it a “cash grab” given his recent career difficulties.
Though many fans appreciate the unique merchandise, others believe it contrasts with his previous success, including chart-topping hits and sold-out concert arenas.
Health Challenges
The recent merchandising tactics coincide with personal health struggles for Elton John. He has endured various medical issues in the past few years, including a hip replacement from a serious fall.
During an interview with Robin Roberts on Good Morning America, John disclosed a more significant health challenge: he lost vision in his right eye due to an infection picked up while vacationing in the South of France.
“It’s been four months since I haven’t been able to see. My left eye is not the greatest,” John remarked. “I haven’t done much in a while. I need to get moving again.”
Additionally, Elton has faced cancer in recent years, severely limiting his food intake to just a few pieces of fruit daily, according to reports.
