In his latest memoir, renowned singer Elton John opens up about the dark side of his friendship with the late Michael Jackson. The 72-year-old artist claims that Jackson’s immense fame took a toll on his mental well-being, leading him to develop a “mental illness.”

Elton John and Michael Jackson’s friendship dates back to the early years of both their careers. The young Jackson, only 13 years old at the time, impressed John with his charm and talent. However, as Jackson’s fame skyrocketed, Elton noticed a disturbing transformation in his friend’s behavior.

Over time, Jackson increasingly disconnected from reality and the outside world, much like another legendary musician, Elvis Presley. Elton John recalls, “Every time I saw him as an adult, I assumed he had completely lost his mind. God alone knows what was going on in his head, and why he was so reliant on medication.”

The memoir also reveals a peculiar incident at one of Elton John’s parties. Jackson, seemingly unable to cope with being around adults, got lost and was later found playing with the housekeeper’s son.

Elton John’s book sheds light on other personal aspects of his life as well. He candidly discusses his relationship with his late mother, Sheila Farebrother, admitting to a strained upbringing. It’s a relationship that didn’t extend to his own children, Zachary and Elijah, whom Sheila never had the opportunity to meet.

Reflecting on his mother’s distant attitude towards his husband, David Furnish, Elton shares, “She was never warm towards him, and she never made an effort to see the children. In a way, I’m glad they didn’t know her because they would have experienced the same criticism I endured.”

Elton John’s memoir serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles behind the glitz and glamour of fame. It paints a picture of a Michael Jackson plagued by inner demons and emphasizes the importance of mental health in the face of overwhelming stardom.