Monstering the Rocketman review Elton aims for the Sun in skewering of 80s tabloids
Briefly

Henry Naylor's Monstering the Rocketman primarily critiques the 1980s tabloid culture through the lens of Elton John's battle against the Sun newspaper's mendacious headlines. The play highlights the ruthless editorial policies of Kelvin MacKenzie, where sensationalism took precedence over truth, evidenced by the Sun's homophobic campaigns against John that led to false accusations and smear tactics. John's subsequent legal battles, including 17 lawsuits against the publication, culminating in a front-page apology, exemplify his fight for vindication in an industry characterized by its disregard for accountability.
Naylor presents Kelvin MacKenzie as the editor who prioritized sales over integrity, leading to a merciless pursuit of sensationalism at the expense of truth.
The play illustrates Elton John's fight against the Sun's defamatory accusations, culminating in 17 lawsuits and a front-page apology, showcasing his resilience.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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