Elton John's mother, Sheila Farebrother, delivered a deeply hurtful statement to him during a phone call, saying, "You care more about that f------ thing you married than your own mother."
This cutting remark was aimed at Elton John's husband, David Furnish, and marked a significant turning point in their relationship, leading to a seven-year estrangement between mother and son.
The Exact Words and Their Impact
The specific quote came during a fraught phone conversation where Sheila Farebrother took a direct swipe at Elton John's husband, David Furnish. Elton John recounted that the most hurtful moment was when she uttered the words:
- "You care more about that f------ thing you married than your own mother."
This statement profoundly impacted their relationship. Following this phone call, Elton John and his mother did not speak for seven years. Despite the estrangement, Elton John continued to provide financial support to his mother throughout this period.
Understanding the Context of the Rift
The relationship between Elton John and his mother was often described as complex and challenging. The remark regarding David Furnish was a culmination of underlying tensions and disagreements. This particular incident highlighted a deep-seated disapproval or resentment from his mother regarding his personal life and priorities.
Key details surrounding this strained relationship include:
- Target of the Remark: The comment was directly aimed at David Furnish, Elton John's husband, indicating his mother's displeasure with their marriage or his focus on it.
- Duration of Estrangement: The phone call that contained this statement led to a seven-year period where Elton John and his mother did not communicate directly.
- Financial Support: Even during their long estrangement, Elton John continued to support his mother financially, demonstrating a lingering sense of responsibility despite the emotional distance.
- Elton's Perspective: In later reflections, Elton John expressed being "glad" that his children did not get to meet his mother, suggesting the depth of the negative impact her behavior had on him.
For further details on Elton John's relationship with his mother, you can refer to reports such as those found on People.com.
To summarize the pivotal details of this difficult interaction:
Aspect | Detail |
---|---|
Exact Quote | "You care more about that f------ thing you married than your own mother." |
Targeted At | David Furnish |
Immediate Effect | Triggered seven years of estrangement |
Elton's Action | Continued financial support for his mother during the estrangement |
Elton's Reflection | Expressed relief that his children did not meet her due to the complex relationship |
This incident underscores the personal challenges Elton John faced, even amidst his global success, and offers insight into the private struggles of a public figure.