New York, September 25, 2007 - The elusive Elton John popped up in New York last night, surrounded by old and new friends at the "Enduring Vision" gala benefit for his AIDS Foundation.

None of the guests at the Waldorf-Astoria admitted to having witnessed one of the mercurial star’s famous temper tantrums, but everyone tried not to cross him.  On her way in, K.D. Lang refused to reveal which song she’d be singing later with Elton.  “I’d better not.  He’s the boss.” 

Honorees Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne are veterans of many Elton John parties.  “He never has a dull party.  There’s always something happening, you know”, Ozzy said.  Petra Nemcova has also met Elton many times, and described his country home: “It has an arty element, but it’s still like an English country house, with glamour and luxury.”

Host Anderson Cooper said he met Elton about a year ago, and finally got to one of his shows.  “I’d never been to a concert, and I just saw a concert in New York; it was amazing.”

Susan Lucci and husband Helmut Huber just met Elton for the first time last week.  “We had the pleasure to have dinner with him last week in London.  He’s a great guy”, they told us.  “We’re here to support him.”