At 76, Sir Elton John remains one of the most iconic figures in music, but his proudest accomplishment is raising his two sons, Zachary and Elijah, alongside his husband, David Furnish. Despite their extraordinary lifestyle, the couple is committed to instilling values of humility and responsibility in their boys, ensuring they grow up understanding the importance of hard work and the value of money.

Elton and David have been partners for over 20 years, a love story that began in 1993 when a mutual friend invited them both to dinner. Elton, drawn to David’s reserved and polished demeanor, felt an immediate connection. The two went on a date the following day, marking the start of a lasting relationship. After nine years in a civil partnership, they officially tied the knot in 2014, celebrating with an intimate ceremony where their sons, Zachary and Elijah, proudly served as ring bearers.

Becoming parents was a challenging journey for the couple. In 2009, during a visit to an HIV orphanage in Ukraine, they met a young boy named Lev, whose circumstances touched their hearts. Though they wanted to adopt him, Ukrainian laws prevented it due to Lev’s age. While they couldn’t bring him home, the experience sparked Elton’s desire to become a father—a role he had previously believed was out of reach because of his age. In 2010, the couple welcomed their first son, Zachary, via surrogate, followed by Elijah in 2013.

Determined to be active parents despite their busy careers, Elton and David decided not to rely on nannies or housekeepers to raise their sons. Instead, they focused on creating a nurturing, hands-on environment. Elton often speaks about how fatherhood has transformed his life, bringing him a deeper sense of purpose. In a heartfelt letter to his sons, he wrote, “Zachary and Elijah, you two are the greatest gifts I’ve ever received. You’ve given my life meaning and filled my heart with a love I never thought possible.”

The couple works hard to ensure their sons lead lives that are as grounded and normal as possible. While Zachary and Elijah may not have realized their parents’ fame at a young age, Elton and David began teaching them the value of money and responsibility early on. By the time the boys were toddlers, they earned pocket money by completing small household chores like helping in the kitchen or the garden. Each allowance, around £3 (or $3.74), was divided into three categories: saving, spending, and charity. As they grew older, their responsibilities expanded to include tidying their rooms, earning stars for completed tasks.

Although Elton acknowledges that his children live a privileged life, he is determined to teach them humility and gratitude. He has stated publicly that he does not plan to leave them his entire estate, explaining, “I want them to be financially secure, but handing kids a silver spoon can ruin their lives.” Instead, Elton aims to strike a balance, providing his sons with opportunities while ensuring they appreciate the value of hard work.

Elton and David also prioritize creating memories outside their luxurious home. They take their sons to the movies or out for pizza, emphasizing the importance of quality family time. Despite his global fame, Elton makes it a point to participate in everyday parenting duties, such as school drop-offs and pick-ups, ensuring he remains actively involved in their lives.

The family rarely shares photos of Zachary and Elijah online, but Elton occasionally gives fans a glimpse into their lives. In one rare social media post, he shared a photo featuring David, their sons, and their godmother, Lady Gaga. Fans were quick to comment on how much the boys had grown, with one writing, “The boys are getting so tall!” and another admiring, “What a beautiful family.”

Fatherhood has also changed Elton’s perspective on money and fame. Before having children, he and David often indulged in lavish spending, enjoying life in the spotlight. However, since becoming parents, they have significantly cut back, focusing instead on living simply and teaching their boys the importance of moderation. Elton now values time with his sons above material possessions or accolades.

The couple understands that their children won’t have a typical upbringing, but they strive to provide them with a sense of normalcy. Elton often remarks that his children are not “stuck behind the gates of a mansion” but live like locals, enjoying everyday experiences. When asked about his concerns over raising children in the public eye, Elton admitted there are challenges but expressed confidence in the kindness of people who approach his family with genuine admiration.

For Elton John, fatherhood has been life-changing. The joy and love he shares with Zachary and Elijah are at the center of his life, influencing his choices and priorities. Despite his legendary career, his greatest pride lies in the family he and David have built together—a testament to their dedication, love, and commitment to raising well-rounded, grounded children.