When you think of Elton John, a few images likely come to mind: the iconic singer at his piano, belting out classics like "Rocket Man" and "Tiny Dancer," or his flamboyant stage outfits, complete with oversized glasses and feather boas.
But in 2017, Elton John added another feather to his cap, quite literally, with his unexpected and delightful appearance in the action-packed film "Kingsman: The Golden Circle."
This crossover from music legend to action movie star was as entertaining as it was unusual. Let’s dive into Elton John's role in "Kingsman," exploring how it came about, his memorable moments, and why it left such a lasting impression on audiences.
Born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on March 25, 1947, in Pinner, Middlesex, England, he adopted the stage name Elton John early in his career.
With a career spanning over five decades, Elton has sold more than 300 million records worldwide, making him one of the best-selling music artists of all time.
His partnership with lyricist Bernie Taupin produced countless hits, including "Your Song," "Bennie and the Jets," "Candle in the Wind," and "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road," cementing his place in music history.
Elton's theatrical performances and flamboyant fashion sense made him a natural fit for stage and screen, though his venture into acting was limited.
That is, until director Matthew Vaughn brought him onboard for a role in "Kingsman: The Golden Circle."
The Kingsman Franchise: A Brief Overview
The "Kingsman" series, directed by Matthew Vaughn, is a tongue-in-cheek homage to spy movies, characterized by its fast-paced action, sharp wit, and stylish aesthetics.
The first film, "Kingsman: The Secret Service" (2014), introduced audiences to the Kingsman organization, a secret group of gentlemen spies dedicated to protecting the world.
The film’s blend of humor, action, and charm won over audiences, paving the way for a sequel.
"Kingsman: The Golden Circle" (2017) continued the story, upping the stakes with a new villain, Poppy Adams (played by Julianne Moore), and an American counterpart to the Kingsman organization called Statesman.
The sequel maintained the original film’s irreverent tone and over-the-top action sequences, making it the perfect playground for an unexpected cameo by none other than Elton John.
Elton John's Role in "Kingsman: The Golden Circle"
In "Kingsman: The Golden Circle," Elton John plays a fictionalized version of himself, kidnapped by the villainous Poppy Adams.
She holds him captive in her secret jungle lair, forcing him to perform for her amusement. It's a role that combines humor, action, and a dash of Elton's signature flamboyance, providing some of the film's most memorable moments.
The Genesis of the Cameo
When director Matthew Vaughn approached Elton John for the role, it was with the idea of having a fun and unexpected cameo in the true spirit of the "Kingsman" franchise.
Vaughn knew that Elton's larger-than-life persona would fit perfectly in the outlandish world of Kingsman.
According to reports, Elton was enthusiastic about the opportunity, embracing the chance to flex his acting muscles in such a unique setting.
Memorable Moments and Elton's Performance
Elton John's scenes in "Kingsman: The Golden Circle" steal the show, blending humor and action with his unmistakable stage presence.
Some of the standout moments include:
The Entrance:
Elton's grand entrance is pure gold. Dressed in one of his signature flamboyant costumes—a feathered and sequined outfit with platform boots—he is introduced in a hilariously surreal scene that immediately sets the tone.
The sight of Elton John, in all his sparkling glory, in the midst of an action-packed spy movie is as surprising as it is delightful.
Fight Scenes:
One of the most unexpected and entertaining aspects of Elton John's appearance is his involvement in the film's action scenes.
At one point, he engages in hand-to-hand combat with Poppy's henchmen, using a combination of martial arts moves and flamboyant kicks.
It's a hilarious and thrilling moment that showcases Elton's willingness to embrace the film's irreverent spirit.
Comic Relief:
Elton’s comedic timing is spot-on throughout the film. His interactions with the main characters, particularly Eggsy (Taron Egerton) and Harry (Colin Firth), are filled with witty banter and humorous asides.
Elton's playful jabs and exaggerated reactions bring levity to the intense action, adding another layer of entertainment.
Elton’s Musical Homage:
Of course, it wouldn’t be an Elton John cameo without a nod to his musical legacy. In one scene, he performs "Wednesday," adding a touch of musical nostalgia while held captive.
This moment not only serves as a fun Easter egg for fans but also highlights Elton’s ability to blend his musical and acting talents seamlessly.
Behind the Scenes: Elton John’s Experience
Elton John’s involvement in "Kingsman: The Golden Circle" wasn’t just a treat for fans—it was a joy for Elton himself. In interviews, he expressed his excitement about being part of such a unique project, praising Matthew Vaughn and the cast for their creativity and camaraderie.
Elton's enthusiasm for the role is evident in his performance, adding a genuine sense of fun and spontaneity to his scenes.
His presence on set reportedly brought a sense of excitement and novelty, with cast and crew members thrilled to work alongside the music legend.
Elton's willingness to embrace the film’s over-the-top nature and his infectious energy made the experience memorable for everyone involved.
Impact and Reception: Why Elton’s Cameo Resonated
Elton John’s cameo in "Kingsman: The Golden Circle" was met with widespread acclaim from both critics and audiences. His performance added an unexpected twist to the film, blending humor, action, and his iconic persona in a way that felt fresh and entertaining.
Critical Acclaim:
Critics praised Elton’s performance as one of the film’s highlights, noting his comedic timing and willingness to embrace the absurdity of the role. His scenes were often cited as standout moments, adding an extra layer of fun to the movie.
Fan Reactions:
Fans of both the "Kingsman" franchise and Elton John were delighted by his appearance. Social media buzzed with positive reactions, with many viewers expressing how much they enjoyed seeing Elton in such an unconventional role. His cameo became a talking point, adding to the film’s overall appeal.
Elton John and Taron Egerton: A Foreshadowing of "Rocketman"
Elton John’s role in "Kingsman: The Golden Circle" has an intriguing connection to another significant project—namely, the biopic "Rocketman."
In "Kingsman," Elton shares the screen with Taron Egerton, who would later portray him in the critically acclaimed film "Rocketman" (2019).
This foreshadowing adds an interesting layer to their on-screen interactions, as "Rocketman" delves into Elton's life and career, with Egerton delivering a powerhouse performance.
The connection between these two films highlights the versatility and lasting impact of Elton John's legacy, both as a musician and a cultural icon.
Personal Reflections: Why We Love Elton John in "Kingsman"?
As the Jervis Family, our admiration for Elton John extends beyond his music to his larger-than-life persona and infectious energy.
Seeing him in "Kingsman: The Golden Circle" was a delightful surprise and added an extra layer of enjoyment to the film.
Elton’s performance reminded us of the joy and unpredictability that he brings to everything he does.
His willingness to step outside his comfort zone and embrace the outrageous spirit of the "Kingsman" franchise is a testament to his enduring creativity and adventurous spirit.
We also appreciate the connection to "Rocketman" and Taron Egerton’s portrayal of Elton John.
It’s a wonderful reminder of how Elton’s influence continues to resonate in new and exciting ways.
Elton John’s appearance in "Kingsman: The Golden Circle" is a perfect example of how artists can continually reinvent themselves and surprise their audiences.
His role added humor, action, and a dash of musical nostalgia to the film, creating some of its most memorable moments.
His willingness to embrace new challenges and bring his unique flair to every project ensures that his influence will continue to shine brightly for years to come.
