Everyone is familiar with the legendary band Queen and their iconic lead vocalist, Freddie Mercury. Since Freddie’s passing in 1991, his legacy has continued to resonate across generations. Today, alongside Freddie’s work, we want to remember the man who stood by him during his final years: Jim Hutton.

But who was the Irishman who stole the heart of one of rock’s greatest stars?

Jim Hutton was born in Carlow, Ireland, in 1949, being one of ten children. He trained as a hairdresser and worked at the prestigious Savoy Hotel in London. It was in 1985 that he met Freddie at a nightclub, though Jim was already in a relationship. Their connection wasn’t instant, but over time, it grew. Jim writes in Mercury and Me, “I didn’t think he was anything special at first. It was just a quick chat and then he was gone.” 

Despite this, their bond blossomed. “He wasn’t the sort of person I thought he’d be, a pop star. He was just a man,” Jim reflects, illustrating how Freddie was much more than his celebrity persona. Over time, as their connection deepened, the two were practically married, however, same-sex marriage was illegal at the time.

Although they never had a public ceremony, the pair still bore rings as a sign of commitment to one another. Jim stated in his book, “We’d talked about it, but we didn’t need a big wedding. We already had everything we needed.”

Freddie was my beloved. There is no one else like him. He always said, “Life has to go ahead.” When I die, Freddie will be waiting for me over there…
Jim Hutton 😭#FreddieMercury pic.twitter.com/DVfdQJMF38

— ふLady💃💅💄 (@fredsladygodiva) November 24, 2024

Jim became a steady presence in Freddie’s life, especially during the final years, when Freddie battled AIDS-related complications. “The man I loved was fading away. But I didn’t love him any less,” Jim writes.

Jim’s devotion to Freddie was clear. He stayed out of the spotlight, respecting their private relationship. “It wasn’t about me. It was about Freddie, and that’s how I wanted it to stay,” Jim says, showing how deeply he valued their bond.

today we start a new year but it’s also the day were Jim Hutton unfortunetly died. it’s been 10 years and we miss him pic.twitter.com/3Fxn1fLhws

— ً (@freddcury) January 1, 2020

Jim Hutton passed away at 61 on New Year’s Day in 2010, but his quiet loyalty and love for the frontman remain vital to the Queen’s story. Jim writes, “We had each other. And that’s what kept us going, right to the end.”

If this made you miss Freddie Mercury more, why not check out our article about the Queen frontman?