In a candid new interview with Rolling Stone, British music icon Elton John has shared a deeply personal story about his decades-long friendship with rapper Eminem, revealing for the first time that his feelings for the Detroit artist once went beyond platonic admiration. The 78-year-old legend recounted a past confession he made to Eminem—born Marshall Mathers—and the rapper’s powerful response that not only preserved their bond but cemented it as one of the most unlikely yet iconic friendships in music history.
Elton John and Eminem’s relationship began in 2001, when they performed Eminem’s hit “Stan” together at the Grammy Awards—a moment that stunned audiences given the controversy surrounding Eminem’s lyrics at the time. Elton, an openly gay artist known for his flamboyant style and emotional ballads, stood in stark contrast to Eminem, whose raw, provocative rap often drew accusations of homophobia. Yet, their performance was a statement of unity, with Elton later defending Eminem against critics, insisting the rapper’s art was misunderstood. That night marked the start of a friendship that has endured for over two decades.
In the Rolling Stone interview, Elton opened up about a private moment in 2004, during a difficult period in Eminem’s life. Eminem was grappling with addiction, a failing marriage to Kim Scott, and the pressures of fame after the release of The Eminem Show. Elton, who had been sober since 1990 and often mentored artists struggling with addiction, became a lifeline for Eminem, calling him weekly to check in. It was during one of these late-night calls that Elton, moved by their growing closeness, confessed his deeper feelings.
“I told Marshall I loved him—not just as a friend, but in a way that was more profound,” Elton recalled, his voice soft but steady. “I knew he was straight, and I wasn’t trying to change that. But I felt this immense connection, and I needed to be honest. I was terrified it might push him away.”
Eminem’s response, however, was a testament to his character. According to Elton, the rapper paused for a moment before replying, “Elton, I love you too, man. Not like that, but you’ve been there for me when no one else was. You’re family. That’s what matters.” Elton described the moment as “electric,” noting that Eminem’s acceptance and vulnerability deepened their bond. “He didn’t flinch, didn’t pull away. He just saw me for me, and I saw him for him. That’s when I knew we’d be friends for life,” Elton said.
Their friendship has since weathered many storms. Elton was a key supporter during Eminem’s recovery from a near-fatal overdose in 2007, and Eminem has often credited Elton’s guidance for helping him achieve sobriety. In 2010, Eminem gave Elton and his husband, David Furnish, matching diamond-encrusted cock rings as a wedding gift—a cheeky gesture that Elton still laughs about. “It was so Marshall,” he said. “Crude, but heartfelt.” The two have collaborated musically as well, with Elton contributing piano to Eminem’s 2020 track “Little Engine” from Music to Be Murdered By.
Fans on X were moved by Elton’s revelation, with one user writing, “Elton John confessing his love to Eminem and Eminem’s response—this is why their friendship is legendary. Pure respect.” Another posted, “Two icons, two different worlds, one unbreakable bond. Elton and Em forever.” The story has reignited discussions about the power of vulnerability in friendships, especially between men from such different backgrounds.
Now, as Eminem navigates grandfatherhood with the birth of his grandson Elliot in 2025, and Elton continues his Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour, their friendship remains a beacon of mutual respect. Elton ended the interview with a smile, saying, “Marshall is one of the greatest artists of our time, but more than that, he’s a great man. I’m lucky to call him my friend.” Their story, born from a moment of raw honesty, continues to inspire as a testament to the transformative power of acceptance.
