Elton John’s New Wax Figure Recreates Iconic Keyboard Handstand

A striking new waxwork figure of Sir Elton John has been unveiled at Madame Tussauds in London, capturing the iconic artist during his heyday in the 1970s. The figure stands out for its gravity-defying pose: a re-creation of Elton John's famed “keyboard handstand,” which has been described as the museum's “most structurally ambitious creation to date.” This waxwork not only commemorates Elton's illustrious career but also coincides with the release of the documentary “Elton John: Never Too Late,” which is now available on Disney+.

This latest waxwork pays homage to Elton John's performance at the 1975 Midsummer Music one-day festival at Wembley Stadium. It showcases him in a bejeweled Bob Mackie jumpsuit, flamboyant glasses, and platform shoes – sartorial elements synonymous with the legendary musician. Elton John has given Madame Tussauds exclusive access to the original costume for the waxwork, ensuring its authenticity. Complementing the ensemble is a baby grand Yamaha piano adorned with 24,000 rhinestones, which adds to the physical grandeur of this artistic tribute.

The exhibition of Elton John's wax figure is a landmark moment for Madame Tussauds London, serving as both a retrospective on the artist's career and a technical feat in wax artistry. The reproduction not only attracts fans by its aesthetic allure but also by capturing Elton's vibrant stage presence. Steve Blackburn, General Manager at Madame Tussauds, elaborated on the challenges and fulfillment the team faced in delivering a pose and figure that shines as a centerpiece in their display—echoing Elton's magnetic and live performances.

Concurrent with the waxwork debut, Elton John continues to be active in the music scene. Since retiring from touring after the record-breaking “Farewell Yellow Brick Road” tour, he has hinted at new musical projects in interviews, indicating that his creative energies remain robust. The deferred energy of his live performances finds new outlets, keeping his presence alive in both physical exhibits and musical endeavors.

For devotees of music history and of Elton John, this waxwork is a definitive piece of nostalgia—a chance to relive or engage with the legacy of a performer whose innovative spirit transformed pop culture and music during the second half of the 20th century. Visitors to Madame Tussauds can experience this marvel up-close, now part of their newly established ‘Impossible Festival' zone. This section of the museum features artists who broke boundaries in music, including pop and rock luminaries like Freddie Mercury and David Bowie.

The Elton John waxwork underscores not only Elton’s contributions to music and entertainment but also Madame Tussauds' commitment to preserving cultural icons in captivating and accessible ways. The exhibition has brought together the collective memories of Elton's fans and infused it with modern craftsmanship in wax artistry. This initiative connects past and present admirers, drawing attention to the lasting impact of someone as dynamic and influential as Elton John.