Elton John's friends and fans alarmed over health update on eyesight ahead of much-anticipated documentary

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Sir Elton John has opened up about a recent health battle that has left him visually impaired.

The legendary British singer-songwriter, 77, took to Instagram on Tuesday, September 3, to share that he had contracted a “severe eye infection” that has drastically affected his vision.

Elton John's revelation sparks wave of support

“Over the summer, I’ve been dealing with a severe eye infection that has unfortunately left me with only limited vision in one eye. I am healing, but it’s an extremely slow process and it will take some time before sight returns to the impacted eye,” John said in a statement.

“I am so grateful for the excellent team of doctors and nurses and my family, who have taken such good care of me over the last several weeks. I have been quietly spending the summer recuperating at home, and am feeling positive about the progress I have made in my healing and recovery thus far," he added.

The revelation prompted an outpouring of love and support from his friends and fans alike.

Among those sending their well wishes was tennis icon Billie Jean King, who commented on John's post: “Sending our love and support your way. Feel better soon, friend.”

Canadian supermodel Linda Evangelista added, “Sending you love and wishing you a speedy recovery.”

Fashion designer Donatella Versace wrote, “Sending you so much love Elton! Feel better soon. Love you.”

Actor and chef David Burtka offered “healing vibes,” and indie-pop singer Spencer Sutherland posted, “I Love you Elton.”

Fellow musician TJ Osbourne of Brothers Osbourne encouraged John to take his time with the recovery. “Take your time and recover, Elton. We’ll be here waiting for your return when you’re healthy and ready," they wrote.

Carnie Wilson — a member of the pop trio Wilson Phillips and daughter of Beach Boys legend Brian Wilson — shared that she was watching one of Elton’s concerts on Monday. “He was loving Bennie And The Jets,” she noted.

Elton John's health challenges in lead-up to documentary premiere

The eye infection is just one of a series of health challenges Sir Elton has faced this year. In January, the “Tiny Dancer” singer underwent knee replacement surgery. It forced him to miss the rescheduled Emmys ceremony, where he was set to complete his EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, Tony) status by winning in the Outstanding Variety Special (Live) category.

By March, John found himself under the knife once more for a second knee replacement. His husband, David Furnish, was optimistic in an interview with The Sun. “By the time the summer rolls around, he’ll have two brand new spanking knees. I think you’ll see him breakdancing down the carpet next year," Furnish quipped.

The announcement of John's eye infection comes just days before the much-anticipated premiere of his new documentary 'Elton John: Never Too Late' at the Toronto International Film Festival. A spokesperson confirmed to Variety that Sir Elton plans to attend the premiere despite his health challenges.

Elton John played his final tour show at the Glastonbury Festival last June, a grand finale witnessed by an estimated 120,000 fans. Although he has stepped back from touring, he hasn’t shied away from making special appearances at benefit events. Next month, he is expected to be in Los Angeles for a high-profile cancer gala.

Just last week, the singer unveiled the first poster for his forthcoming documentary, which will be available on Disney+ starting December 13. Reflecting on the project, John shared on Instagram, “This documentary is such a special journey through the memories, music, and moments that have shaped my life.”

Directed by David Furnish and JR Cutler, the film promises to be an intimate exploration of Elton John's incredible career - featuring never-before-seen concert footage spanning five decades as well as his personal diary entries and candid moments with family.