In a career that spanned more than fifty years, Elton John made his mark in the music business on Broadway and in Hollywood and was known as “Sir.”
The Grammy-winning artist and her husband, David Furnish, have been parents to two sons through surrogacy since 2010. Both are thriving as parents.
Despite his wealth, the brash “Rocket Man” says he refuses a “silver spoon” and teaches his children that luxury “comes from hard work.”
Elton John, 77, entered into a civil partnership in 2005 after meeting British-Canadian filmmaker David Furnish, who produced Billy Elliot the Musical Live, some 31 years ago.
John says that although he didn’t want children at first, a trip to an orphanage in Ukraine in 2009 completely changed his mind.
Elijah and Zachary
They attacked it.
Zachary Furnish-John was welcomed by the legendary musician and his partner on Christmas Day 2010.
The couple released a statement: “We are overwhelmed with happiness and joy at this very special moment.” “Zachary is healthy and doing well and we are very proud and happy parents.”
The same surrogate mother gave birth to their second child, Elijah Furnish-John, on January 11, 2013.
Of the woman who is “part of the family,” the “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” singer said in an interview with People: “She’s an amazing, kind, loving woman.”
“We just hope that Zachary and Elijah are healthy and happy,” Furnish, 61, continues. We want them to grow up to live their own lives and be who they want to be, not who we want them to be. They will always be able to count on us for complete love and support.”
“Lead by example”
John and Furnish officially started their family on December 21, 2014.
“We do not believe further legal action is necessary.” “We all lead by example,” Furnish said in 2014. “But because we’re committed to life, we believe it’s important to take this step and take advantage of incredible change.”
The couple’s ring bearers were their adorable sons.
The man in the pocket
It makes sense that the children of extremely wealthy parents would be covered in money and showered with diamonds.
Even though the “Nikita” singer and Furnish have amassed considerable wealth, they are frugal with Zachary, 13, and Elijah, 11.
“I’m their father, I’m famous and they lead wonderful lives. We’re well aware of the potential risks, which is something David and I discuss often,” John told the Guardian in 2016. “They are spoiled by the way they live and how they live, but they are not spoiled by the rules they have to live by.”
John teaches the boys the value of money and continues to raise them to be responsible adults.
“They get £3 ($3.80) in pocket money, but they also get three coins to put in different containers: £1 (SUS1.20) for charity, £1 for savings and £1 for shopping. They also have to put in some effort – like helping in the kitchen and garden, she continues: “Family movie nights and pizza Saturdays are important lessons for kids to learn the importance of working hard and earning something for themselves.
“Be who you are.”
The “Sacrifice” singer also revealed in 2022 that he wasn’t sure if the boys were musically inclined and that he would support their choice to follow.
In honor of his 75th birthday on March 22, 2022, the loving father wrote a touching letter to Time with the subject line “Dear Zachary and Elijah.”
He writes: “Now that you’re 11 and 9, I never could have imagined where life would take me when I was your age. I’ve learned a lot in the last 75 years and I have a lot to be proud of.” ” .”
He continues, “I was raised to blend in and follow other people’s expectations, even if they didn’t feel right. Now I see that I can be who I am.”
My voice came from being honest with myself, which also allowed me to deal with my worst anxieties.”
Elton John’s journey as a father reveals his deep commitment to raising his sons, Zachary and Elijah, with values that favor hard work and authenticity. Despite his immense wealth and fame, he and his husband, David Furnish, strive to ensure that their children understand the importance of earning a living and contributing to the family. By introducing a structured approach to pocket and charitable giving, they teach their boys financial responsibility and the value of generosity from an early age.
John’s reflections on his upbringing and his desire for his children to embrace their individuality emphasize the importance of self-acceptance and personal integrity. His message of being true to yourself serves as a powerful reminder to Zachary and Elijah that they are free to pursue their passions, whether it’s music or any other path they choose. A loving letter he wrote to his sons on their 75th birthday illustrates his desire to impart wisdom and life lessons that transcend material wealth.
Finally, Elton John and David Furnish exemplify how parenting transcends privilege. Their focus on values such as hard work, empathy, and authenticity creates a nurturing environment where their children can flourish as independent individuals. As Zachary and Elijah navigate the complexities of life, they are well-equipped with basic principles that will guide them to become responsible and compassionate adults.