Elton John Joins Chappell Roan’s ‘Pink Pony Club’ at Oscars Bash

Chappell Roan made history at Elton John’s annual Oscars viewing party on Sunday night, officially inducting the music legend into the Pink Pony Club—complete with a fringe-covered pink cowboy hat.

As the crowd in West Hollywood erupted in cheers, Roan and John took the stage for a duet that combined the best of both worlds: her signature song Pink Pony Club and his classic Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me.

This event marked a special return for Roan, fresh off winning the Best New Artist Grammy. Performing with her all-female band, she delivered an electrifying hour-long set, mixing her fan-favourite hits with a heartfelt tribute to John. Opening with Your Song, she dedicated the performance to her parents, who introduced her to John’s music. "I think it’s maybe the best song ever written," Roan remarked before launching into a stirring rendition.

Later in the night, Roan summoned John from his table—where he had been seated with Brandi Carlile—to join her on stage. The two exchanged vocals as he played piano, bringing the audience to their feet. Then came the moment of the night: Roan crowned John with the honorary pink hat, praising his decades of advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community. "You made it so I could be the artist I am today," she said.

Beyond the music and festivities, the 33rd annual Elton John AIDS Foundation Oscar event raised an incredible $8.6 million for AIDS research and relief. Throughout the evening, guest speakers like Megan Thee Stallion, Neil Patrick Harris, and Sheryl Lee Ralph highlighted the ongoing importance of funding for HIV/AIDS programs, especially amid public funding cuts.

A star-studded guest list, including Hozier, Camila Cabello, Donatella Versace, and Paris Jackson, watched as Roan brought her signature playful energy to the night. With songs like Hot to Go! and My Kink Is Karma, she had the crowd dancing and laughing, even joking with the audience about potential wardrobe malfunctions during her signature arm-raising choreography.

The night’s underlying message remained clear: music, community, and activism go hand in hand. And thanks to Chappell Roan, Elton John can now add "honorary Pink Pony Club member" to his already legendary resume.