Entertainment icon Elton John recently had a moment that caused quite a scene during the 2025 Rock & Roll Hall. In a very Eltony fashion, the Rocket Man hitmaker reportedly went off on everyone in his sight. Just before taking the stage to perform a heartfelt tribute to his close friend, the late Beach Boy member Brian Wilson.
While John’s fans in the audience anticipated the tribute performance, behind the scenes, it was seemingly far more dramatic than anyone expected. Elton John had his fit backstage at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame ceremony on November 8. But what set him off this time? Delays leading up to his tribute. It seems Elton has little to no patience when things waste his time or do not go as he planned.
National Examiner reports that witnesses reportedly heard the 78-year-old icon screeching at the top of his lungs, “My plane is waiting!” It was then followed by an equally frustrated, “What the hell is wrong with you people? Nobody knows what they’re doing!”
Always the professional, Elton John is said to have eventually calmed himself down enough to deliver a moving performance of “God Only Knows.” Paying tribute to Wilson, whom he referred to as his “idol.” Elton John also credited Wilson as being his biggest influence behind his songwriting.
Even though the performance ran smoothly. Many in the line of Elton John’s fire allegedly speculate that his outbursts could be linked to his advanced age and ongoing health issues
At 78, the pressures of live performances, travel, and high-profile events tend to take a toll on even the most seasoned entertainers. Elton’s temperamental moments may reflect the physical and mental strain.
Not Elton John’s First Diva Moment, Likely Not The Last
However, Elton John’s freak-outs are hardly new. In February of this year, during a 20-day recording session for his album Who Believes in Angels?, he reportedly slammed his headphones onto his piano—in contrast, yelling about the chaos of the studio.
Going further back, the late Tina Turner once recounted in 1999 how John “went into a rage” during a VH1 Divas Live rehearsal, only to apologize later. These instances suggest a long history of diva-like tendencies, which some might chalk up to his personality alone.
Despite the temper tantrums, EltonJohn remains a beloved icon in music history. He is too set in his ways by now, so changing is unlikely. Even so, his ability to channel emotion into unforgettable performances continues to captivate his fans.
With age and health, weighing in, perhaps these diva moments are inevitable. Yet, when the music starts. The legendary superstar, hot-headed or not, reminds the world why he’s one of the greatest performers alive.
