Why Elton John Did Not Accept the Emmy That Made Him an EGOT

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - MARCH 23: (EDITORIAL USE ONLY) Elton John performs during the first UK stop on his "Farewell Yellow Brick Road" Tour at M&S Bank Arena on March 23, 2023 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Cameron Smith/Getty Images)

Elton John can officially refer to himself as an EGOT winner.

It’s a rare honor that deserves to be celebrated, considering he’s only the 19th person to ever achieve such a feat.

Unfortunately, the British icon was not on hand to accept the award himself.

The Emmy was accepted on his behalf by film producer and director Ben Winston on Monday, Jan. 15, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, who explained that the 76-year-old couldn’t make it due to a knee operation before quickly squashing any concern by clarifying that “he’s absolutely fine.”

“He wanted to send his love and thanks to the television academy for this incredible award,” he added during his speech at the 75th Emmy Awards.

The honor was bestowed on the 'Candle in the Wind' singer following his win in the Outstanding Variety Special (Live) category for Elton John Live: Farewell From Dodger Stadium.

Elton released a statement shortly after his win: “I am incredibly humbled to be joining the unbelievably talented group of EGOT winners tonight. The journey to this moment has been filled with passion, dedication, and the unwavering support of my fans all around the world. Tonight is a testament to the power of the arts and the joy that it brings to all our lives. Thank you to everyone who has supported me throughout my career, I am incredibly grateful.”

It’s one of three nominations for his final North American show, which was part of his Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour and live-streamed on Disney+.

The three-hour historic concert, produced by Fulwell 73 and Rocket Entertainment, took place on Nov. 2022, allowing Elton’s triumphant career to come full circle as he previously cemented his global legacy following two sold-out shows at the venue in 1975.

An EGOT winner must win an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony award, which Elton did starting in 1986 with a Grammy for Best Pop Performance By A Duo Or Group With Vocal for “That’s What Friends Are For,” along with a 1994 Oscar for The Lion King’s “Can You Feel The Love Tonight” and a Tony in 2000 for Best Original Score on Aida.

Prior to Elton’s momentous win, Viola Davis became the 18th person to achieve EGOT status in February at the Grammy Awards.

Next, The Real Stories Behind Classic Elton John Songs