Yoko Ono Knew John Lennon Was in Danger Before His Death

John Lennon's murder on Dec. 8, 1980, shocked the world and left a lasting impact on music and culture. However, new information suggests that his wife, Yoko Ono, had been warned about potential dangers before the tragedy. In his recent book, "We All Shine On: John, Yoko and Me," longtime friend and spokesperson Elliot Mintz unveils previously unknown details about the events leading up to Lennon's death.

A Warning Ignored?

According to Mintz's account, Ono admitted to him that she had been forewarned about possible threats to Lennon's life. She revealed that her advisers, including tarot readers and numerologists, had warned her of danger surrounding John, especially in New York. Ono took these warnings seriously and even sent Lennon to Bermuda for a period to ensure his safety. "I was told he was in danger in New York and that he should be removed immediately," Ono told Mintz, according to his book.

Yet, despite this precaution, Lennon eventually returned to New York, feeling that he could not stay away indefinitely. Ono explained that Lennon had a firm stance on personal freedom and despised the idea of living under constant protection. This resistance to security measures would tragically place him at risk, ultimately leading to the fateful day outside their apartment at The Dakota.

Yoko Ono and John Lennon performing at the John Sinclair Freedom Rally, 1971. Photo courtesy of Michiganensian, 1972. Public domain..

Lennon's Desire for Freedom

Lennon's aversion to bodyguards and security was well known among those close to him. As Ono recounted to Mintz according to Ultimate Classic Rock, Lennon believed that if someone truly wanted to harm him, they would succeed no matter the precautions taken. Reflecting on past conversations, Ono mentioned Lennon's words after the murder of their friend, actor Sal Mineo, who was killed in a similar targeted attack. "If they're going to get you, they're going to get you," Lennon told her, according to Mintz, illustrating his unwillingness to sacrifice his independence for security.

This attitude left Ono in a challenging position. Despite her concerns and the warnings from her advisers, she could not sway Lennon's resolve to live openly, even if it meant exposing himself to potential danger. Ono's sense of helplessness in protecting her husband was compounded by Lennon's insistence on a lifestyle without restrictions.

The Tragic Night

On Dec. 8, 1980, Lennon and Ono returned home after a session at the Record Plant, a music studio in New York. As they exited their limousine and made their way toward The Dakota's entrance, Mark David Chapman — a fan who had become disillusioned with Lennon — approached them. Chapman shot Lennon four times, ending his life and devastating fans worldwide.

According to Far Out Magazine, Chapman's motives stemmed from a mix of personal frustration, mental health issues, and anger over Lennon's past statements, including his claim that The Beatles were "more popular than Jesus." Obsessed with the idea of eradicating "phoniness," Chapman saw Lennon's fame and influence as offensive. His disillusionment with Lennon's beliefs, particularly statements in Lennon's music about God and society, fueled his desire for violence.

John Lennon and Yoko Ono in bed during their Bed-Ins for Peace in Amsterdam, March 1969. Photo by Eric Koch / Anefo and courtesy of National Archief under CC0 1.0.

Life After Lennon's Death

In the wake of Lennon's death, Ono faced not only the loss of her partner, but also a struggle to protect their family's legacy. Betrayed by individuals close to her, including former employees who sought to profit from Lennon's personal belongings, Ono grew increasingly cautious and protective of their family's private life. Mintz notes that these challenges led Ono to become highly suspicious of people around her, finding herself uncertain about who to trust.

Through Mintz's account, we see a glimpse of the grief, guilt, and paranoia that haunted Ono following Lennon's death. Despite the warnings she received, Ono was unable to prevent the tragedy, left only with memories and questions about whether anything could have been done to save him.

References: Yoko Ono Was Warned John Lennon Was 'In Danger' Before His Murder | Yoko Ono was told John Lennon was "in danger" before his death