Elton John marked his birthday in style this week with an unexpected guest: Taron Egerton, who famously played him in Rocketman, joined for lunch, prompting John to call it “Rocket Man squared.”

Sharing the moment on Instagram, John wrote: “A brilliant birthday surprise having @taron.egerton join us for lunch.

Thank you @davidfurnish for making today and every day feel special, and to all of you for the love, messages and support.”

The reunion resonated with fans who recall the controversy when Egerton was first cast. Critics questioned the choice, but John stood firm, telling The Sun in 2019:

“That’s all bulls—, I’m sorry. If people don’t like it… It’s the movie I wanted to make, and that’s all that counts.”

Egerton addressed the scrutiny as well, explaining to The Hollywood Reporter:

“For me, kissing a man onscreen is no less appealing than kissing a woman onscreen… It makes no difference as to your sexual preference.”

Years later, their friendship remains strong, from red carpet duets at Cannes to casual birthday lunches.

As John has said about Egerton’s casting: “I don’t see an actor, I see myself.”