Elton John ‘auditions’ for NHS Covid-19 vaccine campaign – WATCH
"As you can see, I'm still standing!"
By Will Stroude
Elton John is fronting a surprisingly warm and funny NHS campaign encouraging people to get vaccinated against Covid-19.
The musical superstar, 73, appears alongside Sir Michael Caine in the new advert, which sees the pair ‘audition’ for a spot in a campaign designed to combat fears about the jab and to promote vaccination.
After a showy start, Sir Elton is asked by the director to make his introduction “a little less showbiz”, before also being asked to deliver the line in the style of The Italian Job actor Caine, 97.
Turning more serious, John says: “The more people in society who get vaccinated, the more chance there is of eradicating the national Covid pandemic.”
“It’s really important to know that the vaccines have all been through and met the necessary safety and quality standards”.
After a less-than-convincing attempt to ‘act out’ getting vaccinating, the director tells Sir Elton: “We will let you know”, prompting the ‘Rocketman’ singer to fire back: “Well, at this short notice you won’t find anyone bigger”.
The advert cuts immediately to Sir Michael Caine, who nails his lines in one after appearing to receive the vaccine.
More than 12.5 million people in the UK had received at least one dose of the vaccine by 8 February, according to GP Online.
The NHS vaccination roll-out programme is targeting high-priority groups first, with those over 70 who are yet to receive their first dose now being asked to get in touch with the NHS directly here or by calling 119 free of charge.
Check out Sir Elton John and Sir Michael Caine’s efforts below: