In a powerful reflection on his journey to sobriety, music legend Elton John has revisited his groundbreaking 1991 interview with the late David Frost — a conversation that marked a turning point in his personal life and helped destigmatise mental health struggles for countless fans.
The iconic 1991 interview will be the focus of the upcoming episode of David Frost Vs, airing this Sunday on MSNBC. In the new episode, John provides fresh commentary from the present day, offering insight into his mindset at the time and the importance of asking for help.
“This was very early in my sobriety,” John says in an exclusive preview clip. “I’ve been sober now for 33 years, but… I look at my face, and I looked so happy. I’m so different to the person I was before.”
John, then around 44 years old, sat down with Frost in what would become a deeply candid and emotional discussion. Despite Frost’s reputation as a formidable interviewer, John leaned into vulnerability.
“You’ve known me a long time,” John told Frost during the original interview. “You’ve seen me when I’ve been happy. You’ve seen me when I’ve been troubled… But it’s the first time I’ve had peace of mind.”
Frost replied, “I think you look 10 years younger. I sense you more at peace than I’ve ever seen you before.”
“There’s no inward battle going on anymore,” John agreed.
The David Frost Vs episode explores more than just Elton’s sobriety. It dives into his battles with addiction, his mental health challenges, and the pressure of fame — as well as his journey with queer identity during a time when public acceptance was far less widespread.
Looking back, John emphasises how transformative it was to seek help. “We’re all flawed. It’s just that I realise what my flaws are now. I can do something about them,” he said. “There are so many millions of people who have the same problems as me, and they don’t communicate, because they don’t think people want to be there for them.”
“If any of you are out there listening: It’s OK to ask for help,” he said. “I didn’t think it was, because I thought it was a sign of weakness. In fact, it’s a very spiritual thing to do, to ask another human being to help you. I’m very glad I did.”
With 33 years of sobriety behind him, Elton John’s story continues to resonate — a testament to resilience, authenticity, and the power of reaching out.
