Elton John is officially an EGOT

Honestly, it’s almost more surprising that Elton John wasn’t an EGOT winner already than the fact that he became one tonight. With his award for (in the “Outstanding Variety Special (Live)” category), the “I’m Still Standing” singer officially joined the exclusive club, becoming only the 19th person to do so.

John wasn’t able to attend the broadcast because he was recovering from an operation on his knee, so special producer Ben Winston accepted the award on his behalf. “We knew this show would be historic because it was Elton’s last ever show in North America on tour, we knew it’d be historic because it was Disney’s first ever live stream, we didn’t know it was going to be historic because it was going to win a man, who has created the soundtrack to all of our lives, who has done so much great for society, who is all of our heroes, we didn’t know it was going to win him an EGOT,” said Winston.

The special, which streamed November 2022, captured John’s in North America. It capped off the legendary artist’s Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour, which started all the way back in 2018. “I am incredibly humbled to be joining the unbelievably talented group of EGOT winners tonight,” John said in a statement following his televised win (via ).

“The journey to this moment has been filled with passion, dedication, and the unwavering support of my fans all around the world.” “Tonight is a testament to the power of the arts and the joy that it brings to all our lives,” he added. “Thank you to everyone who has supported me throughout my career, I am incredibly grateful.” John is only the 19th person— —to be inducted into this exclusive club, after made EGOT status last year.

He has won five Grammys, an Oscar in 1994 for “Can You Feel The Love Tonight,” and a Tony in 2000 for his score. John’s EGOT was also a topic of conversation at the broadcast itself. Host noted that ’s Philip Michael Thomas coined the term EGOT even though he never won one himself. In a cute style Weekend Update intro, Amy Poehler also said, “now, I can’t speak for Elton, but he EGOT to be excited about it” of John’s nomination..