Elton John says Canada is 'not the f**king 51st state' in fiery Toronto award speech
Elton John shared his thoughts on comments about Canada becoming the 51st state — and he made his feelings clear while accepting a prestigious award.
On May 9, Elton John accepted the Glenn Gould Prize at the Great Canadian Casino Resort in Toronto.
Named after the renowned Canadian pianist Glenn Gould, the international award is presented every two years and includes a $100,000 prize. It's awarded to a person whose work has "enriched the human condition through the arts." Previous recipients include Leonard Cohen, Yo-Yo Ma, and Alanis Obomsawin.
During his speech, the "Rocketman" singer did not hold back and took aim at the Trump administration.
"It's also nice to be in a country that has common sense," John said during his speech.
He also spoke about his family and close ties to Canada, noting that his husband David Furnish's family in Toronto is a huge part of his life.
"They're part of my soul. My children, they love it here so much, they love their cousins and their family. It is part of my life. I am a Canadian," he stated. "And I can tell you it's not the f**king 51st state either."
His comments received cheers and a standing ovation.
Suggestions that Canada should become the United States' 51st state first emerged in 2024, after comments made by President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly referred to Canada as the "51st state." However, more recently, it appears that Trump may have moved on, instead floating the idea of Venezuela becoming the 51st state.
The singer also praised Canada for embracing diversity and being a country that has "accepted immigrants and has not thrown them out."
There was also laughter during his speech when he accidentally referred to provinces as states while reflecting on his long history performing across Canada.
"I can't thank Canada enough for everything they've ever done for me," said John. "I've played mostly every state, well, not every state, province. Sorry about that!"
He continued that he has loved performing across the country.
"Canada is part of my life and is embedded in my soul," he stated. "So tonight, it makes me incredibly proud to be here."
Watch the video below:
@duplin03 Well said! I was there and it made me tear up. Thank you Sir Elton for saying it publicly. 🇨🇦 #canada #eltonjohn #glenngould #gala #canadatiktok @Elton John @David Furnish ♬ Enchanted Streams Singing Bossa Melodies - DJ RIHAYEM
Several artists also honoured John by performing his songs, with Sarah McLachlan performing "Tiny Dancer."
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