So, another Elton John retrospective. Are we fatigued yet? Probably not. Especially not when it involves the promise of unseen footage and the always-reliable Robin Roberts at the helm. Hulu’s “IMPACT x Nightline” special, “Elton John: Still Standing,” arriving Thursday, December 12, aims to explore the more intimate corners of the music icon’s 55-year career, and frankly, with a life as kaleidoscopic as John’s, there’s always another story to tell.
This time, the focus appears to be a blend of the familiar and the fresh. We’re told to expect a look at John’s well-documented battles with addiction, his complicated upbringing, and, of course, his relationship with husband David Furnish. But the draw here, at least for the die-hards, is the inclusion of never-before-seen material from the upcoming Disney+ documentary “Elton John: Never Too Late.” It’s a smart bit of cross-promotion and a clever way to whet appetites.
Adding a bit of contemporary flavor, the special will feature musicians influenced by John, including Lady Gaga, Charlie Puth, and Brandi Carlile. While these segments might veer into predictable territory—expect lots of talk about mentorship and inspiration—they could still offer an interesting perspective on John’s impact on contemporary music. One can only hope it goes beyond the standard hero worship.
Furnish’s participation is another potential point of interest, offering a glimpse into the personal life of a man often defined by his public persona. How much actual insight we’ll get remains a question mark. Let’s face it, these celebrity profiles tend to have a carefully curated feel. Still, it’s hard to resist the lure of a peek behind the sequined curtain.
Ultimately, “Elton John: Still Standing” looks to be another entry in the ongoing Elton John saga. Whether it adds anything truly new to the narrative will be revealed on December 12. But hey, even if it’s just another glittery victory lap, who’s complaining?
“IMPACT x Nightline: Elton John: Still Standing” airs Thursday, December 12 on Hulu.
