From sunny beach vacations to important family moments, these pictures show the very personal side of a man whose private life has been just as extraordinary as his record-breaking music career.
Elton John has performed in massive stadiums, reached number one on the charts, and influenced music history, but nothing has transformed his existence more than being a father. In this visual retrospective, we follow the development of Elton’s most meaningful journey so far—his life as a devoted dad.
2011
Elton and his husband, David Furnish, entered parenthood with the arrival of their first son, Zachary, in 2010. Just a few months later, the pair were seen in public, enjoying the initial delights of being parents.
From relaxed beach outings to peaceful family vacations, the joy visible on their faces communicated a great deal—a clear indication that life had been permanently changed.
2012
2013
2014
By 2014, the couple had fully adapted to family life with their two sons. Elijah had become part of the family the previous year, and they were frequently seen sharing happy public moments together.
Whether it was a vibrant end-of-summer celebration at their Woodside property or supporting from the stands at a Watford football game, the couple made it evident that they cherished every opportunity to be involved and active parents.
2015
2017
By 2017, Zachary and Elijah were maturing quickly, and so was the pace of life for Elton and David. Whether it was a family trip near the water or a soccer outing in matching Watford attire, one thing was obvious—these boys were the focus of everything.
But behind the scenes, the couple was very thoughtful about their parenting approach. “They’re not normal kids,” Elton once stated. “And I’m not pretending they are. But you have to have some semblance of normality, some respect for money, some respect for work.”
Therefore, chores were mandatory in the John-Furnish home. “And they have to work for it – help in the kitchen, help in the garden. They’ve got to learn the value of doing something and earning something for themselves,” their famous father explained.
The boys even learned about financial responsibility from an early age. Weekly allowance was divided into three containers—one for charity, one for saving, and one for spending. Elton admitted:
“They are spoiled in the way they live, but they’re not spoiled when it comes to the rules they have to live by.”
2018
2019
2020
In 2020, Elton’s birthday was celebrated quietly at home—but the affection was enormous. Wearing his signature red-tinted glasses and with a birthday cake decorated with raspberries and candles in front of him, he smiled broadly as his sons stood proudly beside him.
The singer posted the sweet occasion on Instagram, offering fans an uncommon look into the simple, happy way his family observed the event.
2021
2022
By 2022, Zachary and Elijah had developed into self-assured young boys, accompanying David on the red carpet in coordinating navy suits at the yearly Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Viewing Party.
They stood confidently next to their father, demonstrating how much they had grown—not only in stature but in composure and maturity.
That same year, Elton celebrated a deeply personal achievement—his 75th birthday. And in a public message that touched many hearts, he honored his sons in a way only a proud dad could, writing:
“Zachary and Elijah, you two are the greatest gifts I have ever been given. You have filled my heart with love and my life with purpose and meaning in ways I didn’t think were possible. You are my proudest achievements, and I love you both so, so much.”
2023
2025
Now well into their teenage years, Zachary and Elijah have matured before our eyes—from small children held in Elton’s arms to composed young men standing tall next to him.
In March 2025, they attended the famous Elton John AIDS Foundation Annual Academy Awards Viewing Party in matching black suits, holding one of their dad’s characteristic glittering hats—a significant appearance in support of the man who is the center of their world.
Reflecting on that profound connection, Elton spoke openly in a recent documentary about how his sons have become more conscious of his age:
“They worry about my mortality because they know how old I am. Not so much David, but me — they love their Daddy, so they want me to be around forever.”
At home, that closeness is part of daily life. “Meals are sacred,” David shared. “So, no phones at the table. No television on in the background. It’s all about conversation. It’s all about connection.”
That feeling of unity also goes beyond the dinner table. Zachary and Elijah continue to be regular features on Elton’s social media as well—whether they are cycling along picturesque coastal paths, hiking to stunning viewpoints, or standing by the ocean.
Fans have observed how much the boys have grown and how tightly bonded the family remains, often leaving sincere—and occasionally funny—comments.
“Your boys are soo big!! Must’ve happened overnight. 😂❤️❤️❤️❤️ [sic],” one follower wrote. Another added, “Boys are so grown up ❤️ looked like a magical summer 😍.” Others noted how strongly the boys resemble their parents.
“Is it just me or do the boys look just like Elton they look like two well loved boys with two lovely father’s [sic],” one fan commented. Another agreed with, “The one on the left looks like Elton one on the right looks like David .. ❤️❤️ handsome fellows [sic].”
“They look like Elton,” someone else remarked. Capturing the feeling shared by many, one fan wrote, “They look so happy and snazzy!! Such an adorable family!! It is so obvious how proud those two guys are of their handsome kids. ❤️”
From their earliest days as infants on sunny beaches to red carpet events and quiet meals at home, Zachary and Elijah have been raised by two parents committed to bringing them up not only with love—but with purpose, discipline, and heart.