While Elton John grapples with his fears about not being present for his children’s milestones, his husband, David Furnish, remains focused on the positive aspects of their lives.
Furnish, 61, admitted to PEOPLE that watching a poignant scene from the new documentary Elton John: Never Too Late—where Elton expresses his concerns about missing important moments in their children’s lives—caused him considerable anxiety.
“I don’t think it’s something you should discuss with your children. I don’t want to instill that fear in them,” he explains. “Elton has endured much but remains incredibly resilient. He rarely misses a performance and is a remarkably strong individual. I have no doubt he’ll outlast me; he’s incredibly tough.”
Elton John’s retirement from touring brings newfound happiness for him and his family
Furnish, who co-directed the documentary with R.J. Cutler, and John, 77, have been partners for over 30 years and are parents to sons Zachary, 13, and Elijah, 11.
In the film, John shares his children’s concerns about his mortality and their desire for him to be around indefinitely. “I want to witness their milestones like marriage and parenthood, though I fear I might not be present,” he reflects. “That’s why I strive to make the most of my time now. Every moment together is precious.”
Despite his wish for John’s eternal presence, Furnish is content with their current life, especially following John’s retirement from touring. “We’ve finally reached a point we once only dreamed of,” he says, noting that John’s retirement wasn’t a sudden decision but a genuine move towards happiness.
Furnish adds that John is truly content in his retirement, marking a major shift after years of constant touring. They made their first public appearance since the eye infection revelation at the documentary’s premiere at TIFF on Sept. 6. The film captures John’s reflections from his legendary 1974 Madison Square Garden show to his final 2022 performance at Dodger Stadium.
