Sir Elton John is finding new ways to bring in revenue following the end of his live touring career. At 77, with ongoing health issues and two high-profile musical flops, John has pivoted to selling festive merchandise on his official online store. Items range from $70 Christmas jumpers to $25 baubles, with the pop legend hoping to capitalize on the holiday shopping rush.
Elton's store offers an assortment of goods, from $18 socks and $16 playing card packs to a $417 limited edition teddy bear inspired by his landmark 1973 album Goodbye Yellow Brick Road. The Steiff bear, a collectible luxury toy, features miniature Elton John-style sunglasses and jacket details inspired by his iconic look.
The most expensive item on the site is a $158 Elton John action figure, with other offerings like $19 mugs, $25 tote bags, and $70 joggers. While the store aims to showcase Elton's flamboyant style, it has also drawn attention for what some call "cash grab" tactics, especially in light of his recent professional struggles.
While fans have embraced the quirky merchandise, critics have pointed out that it seems a far cry from his days of topping charts and selling out arenas.
Health challenges
Elton John's shift toward merchandising comes at a difficult time in his personal life. The superstar musician has faced a range of health problems in recent years, including a hip replacement after a serious fall.
More recently, he revealed a significant new challenge during an interview with Robin Roberts on Good Morning America, disclosing that he had lost sight in his right eye after contracting an infection while in the South of France.
"It's been four months now since I haven't been able to see. My left eye is not the greatest," John said. "It's been a while since I've done anything. I just have to get off my backside."
Compounding these issues, Elton has also battled cancer in recent years, drastically reducing his food intake, with reports stating he survives on only a few pieces of fruit a day.