Elton John sparks uproar over star’s ‘disappointing’ surprise guests

Sir Elton John promised to welcome four special guests onto the stage at Glastonbury Festival – but many fans were disappointed by the line-up.

The Rocketman hitmaker first welcomed the Gabriels onto the stage before greeting TikTok star Stephen Sanchez, who sang his own song. The third guest act was Brandon Flowers.

Rina Sawayama also made an appearance on stage and performed Sir Elton’s hit with Kiki Dee, Don’t Go Breaking My Heart.

The 76-year-old did promise one big name who would join him on stage towards the end of the set.

He shared with the audience: “When I chose my guests for this show, I wanted to have newer artists save from one person.

READ MORE: Elton John’s appearance sparks concern as he walks onto Glastonbury stage

“This next boy I heard last year on the radio in America, it was an American hit and I couldn’t believe someone of 19 or 20 years of age could write a song like this.

“It was a nod to the past but his song is so beautiful and fresh. So I’ve asked him to come to Glastonbury to do his song.

“It’s not one of my songs…I’m gonna play with him but he’s an amazing young talent and you’ve got to give him the biggest reception because you’ll love him, Stephen Sanchez.”

However, some fans were left disappointed by the guest line-up and took to social media to share their thoughts.

@Hannah_Walker13 shared: “I’m happy that Elton is showcasing younger and newer talent, but I’ve gotta admit I’m also very disappointed in these special guests #glastonbury2023 #EltonJohn.”

@_Zirafa28 tweeted: “Starting to think these guests of Elton’s might not live up to the hype…”

While @JodyRic14958478 pointed out: “Everyone watching #glastonbury2023 #EltonJohn saying “who…?” As the first guest comes out.” (sic)

@john7redtunes added: “Elton John #glastonbury2023 . Disappointing first guest.” (sic)

@ItsjustmeAliD went on: “When you sitting suffering #EltonJohn expecting Britney or Eminem to come out, then some geezer I’ve never heard of comes on ffs.” (sic)

@ETusty commented: “I have no idea who this guy is with Elton. Neither it seems do a lot of people on Twitter. #glastonbury2023.”

Despite the criticism, other fans praised Sir Elton for giving young artists a platform to perform.

@DukeStKing said: “F*****g respect to #EltonJohn for giving his stage to a younger artist few people have heard of and playing HIS song for millions of people.” (sic)

@MrAdamR praised: “Elton John picked rising stars for his goodbye gig at Glastonbury. He could have had any artists in the world but chose to use #glastonbury2023 to promote the next generation of stars as he has done throughout his career. His soul shines bright like a mirrorball! A PROPER STAR!” (sic)

Glastonbury Festival is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.