Music icon Sir Elton John has made a heartfelt and unprecedented move on social media, sharing the first-ever photograph showing the faces of his two teenage sons with husband David Furnish.
A Milestone Family Moment
The 78-year-old British legend posted a series of images from a glamorous New Year's Eve party hosted by fashion designer Donatella Versace and former British Vogue editor Edward Enninful in London. While the initial photos featured the star with his hosts and husband, the final snapshot was the most significant: a family portrait with Zachary, 14, and Elijah, 12, both dressed smartly in suits for the occasion.
This marks a major shift for the couple, who have carefully protected their children's privacy since their births via surrogacy in 2010 and 2013. Previously, the boys were only shown with their backs to the camera or with faces obscured. Captioning the Instagram post, Elton wrote: 'Thank you @donatella_versace and @edward_enninful for hosting us for a fabulous New Years Eve party! A perfect way to see in 2026.'
Prioritising Family Over Fame
The public reveal aligns with sentiments both Elton and David, 63, have expressed in recent years about the importance of family. In a 2024 interview, Elton explained his decision to retire from touring, stating his husband and sons were his 'most important things'. He said coming off the road allowed him to 'be there for them' during the latter part of his life.
David echoed this, telling Entertainment Tonight that same year they did not want to miss their sons' teenage milestones. 'We've got our sons. They're getting into their teenage years now. We don't want to miss anything,' he said. The filmmaker added that after six decades in the spotlight, it was 'nice to have that time to spend at home with family.'
Fans were quick to comment on the historic post, with many expressing how grown-up the boys looked. One follower wrote: 'Wow your sons are so handsome and grown up. You must be so proud.' Donatella Versace also responded, writing: 'I love you so so much Elton! No better way to start 2026.'
A Long-Awaited Family
The couple, who entered a civil partnership in 2005 and married in 2014, have always been open about their joy at becoming parents. When Zachary was born, they said they were 'overwhelmed with happiness and joy'. Upon Elijah's arrival three years later, they told Hello! magazine that their family was now 'complete in a most precious and perfect way'.
In a 2022 letter to his sons published in Time magazine, Elton penned a powerful tribute, calling them his 'greatest gifts' who filled his life with 'purpose and meaning'. He has also previously discussed raising them with working-class values despite their privileged background, aiming to instil a strong work ethic.
This New Year's post follows another rare public appearance by the whole family at Elton's Oscars viewing party in March 2025, signalling a gentle easing into the public eye as the boys grow older.
