Key Highlights
- Elton John reportedly threw a fit backstage at the 2025 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame ceremony.
- The incident occurred due to delays in the show schedule, causing John concern about his plane’s departure time.
- John paid tribute to Brian Wilson with an emotional cover performance during the event.
- This behavior is reminiscent of a past incident where John reportedly blew up at Tina Turner during rehearsal for VH1’s “Diva’s Live ’99.”
Elton John’s Backstage Meltdown: A Night to Remember
The 2025 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame ceremony was marred by a minor but notable incident involving Elton John. According to sources, the legendary singer-songwriter, who celebrated his 78th birthday that year, reportedly became irate backstage due to delays in the show’s schedule. This frustration culminated in him shouting insults at event organizers, expressing his dissatisfaction with their handling of the proceedings.
Behind-the-Scenes Chaos
The backstage chaos was described by a spy who witnessed the incident: “John was yelling and asking things like, ‘What the hell is wrong with you people? Nobody knows what they’re doing!'” This outburst, which reportedly sent ripples through the backstage area, raised questions about the level of organization on that fateful night. Despite these disruptions, John managed to take the stage without his famous piano, and the show proceeded as scheduled.
A Tribute to Brian Wilson
Amidst the chaos, John’s dedication to Brian Wilson, a co-founder of the Beach Boys who passed away in June 2025 at the age of 82, remained unwavering. In honor of his musical idol, John performed an emotional cover version of “God Only Knows.” He also shared personal anecdotes about their first meeting, describing Wilson as his “idol” and a significant influence on his songwriting and piano playing.
Previous Incidents and Apologies
This behavior is not the first time John has publicly lost his temper. In 1999, during rehearsals for VH1’s “Diva’s Live,” John reportedly blew up at Tina Turner, known for her fiery performances on stage. According to Tina Turner, “I made a mistake when I needed to show him how to play ‘Proud Mary,’” she explained in an interview with Mike Wallace for “60 Minutes.” She further elaborated: “The mistake is you don’t show Elton John how to play his piano,” and that he “just exploded.” Turner later stated, “He eventually apologized for his behavior.”
Despite this latest incident, Elton John maintained his composure on stage, honoring Brian Wilson with a powerful performance. The event served as a reminder of the complex human nature behind even the most revered figures in the entertainment industry.
