What Happened In The Life Of John Deacon
At the 2018 premiere of Bohemian Rhapsody, the biopic celebrating Freddie Mercury’s life, only two of Queen’s surviving members attended: guitarist Brian May and drummer Roger Taylor. They lit up the red carpet, posing with the cast, exuding rockstar charm with their styled hair, gleaming smiles, and tailored suits. But the absence of the third surviving member, bassist John Deacon, went largely unnoticed. Deacon, who has not appeared publicly in over 20 years, has become something of a mystery, leading a private life away from the limelight.
Neighbors occasionally spot the former rock star at the local supermarket, but it’s hard to recognize the almost-septuagenarian who once electrified stadiums. Deacon lives in the same South London neighborhood with his wife, Veronica Tetzlaff, raising their six children in the comfort of a modest lifestyle, despite his estimated €120 million fortune. Royalties continue to pour in, but Deacon avoids the luxuries that his wealth could easily afford.
Deacon always preferred a low profile, even when Queen was at its peak. As the last to join the band, his quiet, reserved nature helped maintain the group’s chemistry, balancing out the dynamic personalities of May, Mercury, and Taylor. His discreet presence was a key reason for his acceptance into the band, and he soon formed a close bond with Mercury, who became his friend and ally. Being the youngest member, Deacon leaned on Mercury, and the two shared a genuine friendship. This made Freddie’s death particularly devastating for Deacon, leaving him struggling to move on and restart Queen’s journey.
Though naturally shy, Deacon navigated the world of rock with quiet determination. He played to massive crowds, built a fortune, crafted timeless hits, and was a vital part of one of the greatest bands in history—all while raising a family amid the excesses of the rock and roll lifestyle. But one day, he chose to step away, seeking a simpler life, far from fame’s glare. For Deacon, the flashing lights, the fame, and the lifestyle became relics of a past life.
As he approached 50, Deacon transitioned into a new chapter with the wisdom to cherish the best of his former world. Now, he lives contentedly, having found peace in the quiet, everyday moments that his rockstar past never afforded him.
