Music legend Elton John has opened up about his complex relationship with Michael Jackson in his 2019 autobiography "Me," painting a picture of the King of Pop's troubling transformation from a charming teen star to an isolated figure in his later years.
In the memoir, John describes his initial encounters with Jackson in the early years, remembering him as "the most adorable kid you could imagine" when they first met in Jackson's early teens. However, this warm recollection stands in stark contrast to John's observations of Jackson's later life.
The "Rocket Man" singer draws parallels between Jackson and Elvis Presley, noting how both music icons gradually withdrew from reality and society. John observed a concerning pattern of isolation in Jackson's behavior as years progressed.
John's account suggests that prescription drug dependency played a major role in Jackson's declining mental state. The British musician expressed deep concern about the medications Jackson was reportedly taking and their effects on his wellbeing.
The revelations offer a rare glimpse into Jackson's private struggles from someone who knew him across different phases of his life. John's candid observations add to the ongoing discussion about Jackson's complex legacy and the personal challenges he faced throughout his career.
The autobiography presents an intimate perspective on one of music's most enigmatic figures, highlighting the stark contrast between Jackson's early promise and his later troubles, as witnessed by one of his longtime industry peers.