Prince Harry & Meghan Markle’s Heartfelt Elton John Tribute: A Royal Nod to Princess Diana’s Enduring Friendship at Farewell Tour

In a touching and deeply personal gesture that resonated with fans across the globe, Prince Harry, 38, and Meghan Markle, 41, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, joined countless admirers in celebrating the legendary career of their dear friend, Sir Elton John, 75. Their heartfelt tribute came in the form of a pre-recorded video message, aired during Elton’s final North American concert at the iconic Dodgers Stadium in Los Angeles on November 20. This momentous occasion marked a significant milestone in Elton’s “Farewell Yellow Brick Road” tour, and the royal couple’s message not only conveyed profound appreciation for his artistry but also highlighted the enduring and special bond he shared with Prince Harry’s late mother, Princess Diana. The video, which aired live on Disney+, offered a rare glimpse into the intimate relationship between the Sussexes and the iconic musician, blending sincere gratitude with moments of affectionate public display.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex filmed a video message for the “Hold Me Closer” singer, ensuring that their well wishes reached him before his highly anticipated performance. This gesture underscored the depth of their friendship, a connection that transcends mere celebrity acquaintance and is rooted in shared history and mutual respect. The couple, known for their modern approach to royal protocol, appeared relaxed and genuine, standing together as they delivered their heartfelt words to the legendary performer, making it clear that their appreciation for Sir Elton John was both professional and deeply personal. Their presence, even virtually, added a distinct royal imprimatur to an already monumental event, reflecting the global significance of Elton John’s career and his cherished place within the royal family’s affections.

Meghan Markle initiated the message, standing gracefully beside her husband, Prince Harry. Her opening remarks were filled with warmth and admiration, setting a tone of profound appreciation. “Hi Elton, we just wanted to say congratulations,” Meghan began, her voice radiating sincerity and genuine happiness for their friend. “And that we are just so proud of you. We’re so grateful that we were able to see you on your farewell tour also,” the mom-of-two added, referencing their attendance at one of his previous tour dates. This acknowledgment not only showed their personal investment in his farewell journey but also highlighted the global impact of his “Farewell Yellow Brick Road” tour, which has captivated audiences worldwide. Meghan’s words conveyed a sense of genuine connection and shared experience, emphasizing the couple’s regard for Elton not just as a global icon, but as a cherished friend who has played a significant role in their lives.

“Thank you for being the friend you were to my mum, thank you for being our friend, thank you for being a friend to our kids…we love you and congratulations on an incredible career”

Prince Harry and Meghan’s message to Elton John on his farewell tour 🤍pic.twitter.com/ETl0fd7Wfh

— Myra (@SussexPrincess) November 21, 2022

Prince Harry then took the opportunity to chime in with his own profoundly moving words, extending the tribute beyond Elton’s musical achievements to his personal impact on the royal family. “And thank you for entertaining everybody for so many decades,” he said, acknowledging the legendary performer’s indelible mark on music history and his unique ability to captivate audiences across generations. Harry then delved into the heart of their shared connection, expressing deep gratitude “for being a friend” to his late mother, Princess Diana. This particular sentiment resonated deeply with fans globally, recalling the extraordinary friendship between Elton John and the Princess of Wales, a bond that was publicly celebrated and tragically mourned. Harry continued, extending this appreciation to the present generation: “Thank you for being our friend. Thank you for being a friend to our kids and thank you for entertaining people right around the world.” This multi-generational thank you underscored the enduring nature of Elton’s relationship with the House of Windsor, demonstrating how his influence has touched three generations of the royal family, from Diana to Harry and Meghan, and now to their children, Archie and Lilibet, highlighting a legacy of personal connection and mutual support.

Harry’s message also carried a playful yet sincere note about Elton’s retirement plans. “Even though this is officially your retirement, this will not be your last gig and we know that,” he mused, a testament to Elton’s irrepressible spirit and legendary stage presence, hinting that the world might still see him perform occasionally, perhaps for special occasions or humanitarian causes close to his heart. He concluded with a powerful declaration of affection and admiration: “But we love you and congratulations on an incredible career.” As Harry finished, Meghan rested her head on Harry’s shoulder, a tender moment of public affection that speaks volumes about their unity and genuine warmth as a couple. She then blew a kiss towards the camera, a final, sweet gesture as the couple’s video message to Elton ended. Their attire for the video was elegant yet understated: Harry in a sharp navy blue suit jacket over a crisp white button-down shirt, and Meghan in a chic brown shirt, reflecting their characteristic blend of sophistication and approachability, perfectly suited for such a heartfelt and public tribute.

The Enduring Bond: Elton John’s Legacy of Friendship with the Royal Family

The profound connection between Sir Elton John and the British Royal Family is a narrative deeply woven into modern history, showcasing a remarkable blend of celebrity and aristocratic friendship. His bond with the royals spans decades, marked by significant personal and public moments that have captured global attention. Most famously, Elton John shared an extraordinary and deeply personal friendship with Princess Diana, a relationship characterized by mutual respect, unwavering support, and a shared commitment to various humanitarian causes. Their connection was not merely social but deeply empathetic, with Elton often speaking eloquently about Diana’s unique ability to connect with people from all walks of life and her profound impact on the world stage. Following her tragic passing in 1997, Elton famously performed a re-written version of “Candle in the Wind” at her funeral, a poignant and emotionally charged tribute that became one of the best-selling singles of all time and a global anthem of grief and remembrance. This powerful act cemented his place in royal history and underscored the depth of his personal sorrow and profound respect for the Princess.

This enduring relationship extended seamlessly to the next generation, demonstrating the lasting impact of his friendship. Sir Elton John was a prominent and cherished guest at Meghan and Harry’s wedding at Windsor Castle in 2018, where he graced the ceremony with a moving performance of several of his beloved hits, including “Tiny Dancer” and “Can You Feel the Love Tonight.” His presence added a layer of historical continuity and personal warmth to the grand royal occasion, serving as a powerful reminder of his connection to Harry’s mother and the deep respect he held for the young couple as they embarked on their new life together. More recently, he also performed at Queen Elizabeth‘s Platinum Jubilee in June, just three months before she died. This performance was a testament to his continued relevance and his unwavering loyalty to the monarch, showcasing his ability to transcend personal friendships and serve the wider institution of the monarchy through his celebrated art.

The respect Elton holds for Princess Diana is not merely a matter of historical record; it’s a visibly active and deeply emotional part of his life even decades after her passing. He frequently uses his platform to honor her memory and the causes she championed. As a poignant example, he posted a heartfelt tribute to her in August on the 25th anniversary of her passing, sharing a poignant throwback photo of the two together, radiating genuine joy. His caption, simply stating, “You will always be missed,” resonated deeply with millions of fans and admirers, echoing the sentiments of those who remembered Diana’s humanitarian efforts, charismatic spirit, and profound impact on society. The “Tiny Dancer” hitmaker consistently uses his global reach to reinforce the idea that true friendships endure beyond life itself, and that Diana’s legacy lives on powerfully through the people she touched, including Elton John and, by direct extension, her son Prince Harry, who continues to honor his mother’s memory through his own charitable endeavors.

Elton John’s Farewell: A Spectacle at Dodgers Stadium

The concert on November 20 at Dodgers Stadium was more than just another stop on a lengthy tour; it was a deeply symbolic and emotional milestone in the illustrious career of Sir Elton John. For the iconic musician, Dodgers Stadium holds an incredibly special place in his heart and personal history, being the venue for two legendary performances in October 1975 that firmly cemented his superstar status in the United States and globally. Returning to this hallowed ground for what he declared as his final North American show was a full-circle moment, laden with nostalgia and immense significance for both the artist and his legions of dedicated fans. The atmosphere within the packed stadium was electric, a palpable mixture of celebratory joy for his incredible, decades-long career and a poignant sense of farewell to his extensive touring days, creating an unforgettable experience for all in attendance.

The evening was a star-studded affair, reflecting Elton John’s immense influence and collaborative spirit within the music industry. A lineup of talented artists joined him on stage to pay homage to his unparalleled musical genius. Dua Lipa, with whom he collaborated on the hugely successful hit “Cold Heart,” delivered a vibrant and energetic performance, showcasing their seamless musical chemistry. Fellow artists Brandi Carlile and Kiki Dee also shared the stage, each adding their unique flair to the grand spectacle. Kiki Dee’s appearance was particularly nostalgic and heartwarming, as she famously duetted with Elton on their beloved 1976 hit “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart,” bringing a wave of fond memories for many long-time fans. The audience, a diverse mix of generations of fans, reveled in these powerful collaborations, witnessing living legends and contemporary stars celebrating a musical giant. Among the VIP attendees soaking in the historic night were other prominent celebrities such as Lizzo, Heidi Klum, and Angela Bassett, underscoring the universal appeal and profound reverence for Sir Elton John’s artistry.

Addressing the colossal crowd of tens of thousands, Elton John conveyed the profound emotions that permeated the evening. “This is a very special night for me — a very emotional night for me — and it’s been a long journey,” he told the adoring audience, his voice filled with gratitude and a touch of melancholy, as reported by the LA Times. His heartfelt words encapsulated five decades of relentless touring, prolific songwriting, and captivating performances, a career defined by dazzling spectacle, heartfelt ballads, and an unwavering, intimate connection with his fans. The “Farewell Yellow Brick Road” tour, which has seen him travel across continents, performing hundreds of shows to millions of people, is not just a series of concerts but a grand, global celebration of a life dedicated wholeheartedly to music and performance. This unprecedented global odyssey is set to officially conclude in July 2023 in Europe, marking the end of an extraordinary era in music history, but certainly not the end of his profound legacy or his cherished friendships.

A Legacy of Love and Loyalty

The heartfelt tribute from Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to Elton John serves as a poignant reminder of the power of enduring friendships, particularly those forged under the unique and often challenging pressures of public life and intense media scrutiny. Their video message, delivered with genuine affection and respect, not only honored Elton’s incredible musical journey and humanitarian work but also reaffirmed the deep-seated connections that bind them across generations. By explicitly thanking Elton for his steadfast friendship to Princess Diana, to them as a couple, and importantly, to their children, Harry eloquently articulated a legacy of loyalty, kindness, and support that has spanned several decades and generations of the royal family. It highlighted Elton’s role not just as a global superstar but as a steadfast pillar of support and a cherished confidant within the royal family’s private circle. This reciprocal admiration paints a beautiful picture of celebrity and royalty intersecting, not just for public relations or ceremonial duty, but for authentic human connection and shared values.

In an era often characterized by fleeting alliances and transactional relationships, the longevity and depth of Elton John’s bond with the British Royal Family, particularly with the late Princess Diana and now with Prince Harry and Meghan, stands as a powerful testament to genuine affection, mutual respect, and unwavering loyalty. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, through their public display of affection (PDA) and their heartfelt words, reinforced their image as a couple who value authenticity, personal relationships, and emotional honesty above strict adherence to traditional royal formalities. Their tribute was a profound statement about chosen family, loyalty, and the lasting impact of kindness, mentorship, and support in navigating life’s complex journey. As Elton John gracefully closes this chapter of his illustrious touring career, he does so with the profound knowledge that his legacy extends far beyond his monumental musical catalogue, encompassing profound human connections that will continue to resonate and inspire for years to come, reminding us all of the enduring power of true friendship.